The US gives Israel 30 days to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza

2024-10-16 16:56:21, Kosova & Bota CNA

The United States has sent a letter to Israel asking it to allow an immediate increase in the amount of humanitarian aid entering Gaza. As VOA correspondent Carla Babb reports, the letter, which the Pentagon said was intended to remain private, comes after parts of a US air defense system intended to defend the country against Israeli attacks began arriving in Israel. future with ballistic missiles.

As the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sent a letter to their Israeli counterparts, calling for concrete commitments to improve the humanitarian situation within 30 days. On the contrary, the paper says, it could affect US policy.

"Secretary Blinken and Secretary Austin felt that the Israeli government needed to be made clear about the need to increase aid to Gaza from the low levels we have today," said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

According to Washington, a similar request sent to Israel in April led to an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. But currently, the amount of aid has been reduced by more than 50%.

"Land routes are the most effective way to deliver aid to civilians who need it most. We certainly want to see these corridors open. Secretary Austin continues to emphasize this request," Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh said.

Washington declined to say this week what would happen if Israel does not comply with the demands set out in the letters. VOA asked the Pentagon spokeswoman if the US military is discussing stopping military support for Israel.

"Israel continues to have support from the United States, whether through arms sales or American contribution to Israel's self-defense. I can't say more," Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh replied.

Parts of the US air defense system, THAAD, and dozens of US troops to operate it, have begun arriving in Israel.

"You have seen the engagement of our warships from the sea. "We are now providing ground-based protection against another possible ballistic missile attack from Iran, should that country choose to respond," spokeswoman Singh said.

Iran has launched two direct attacks against Israel, the last on October 1 with about 180 ballistic missiles. Tel Aviv has not yet reacted militarily to Tehran's latest attack./ VOA