U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has conveyed to Israeli leaders that significant action is required to enhance the flow of humanitarian aid to civilians in northern Gaza, with potential legal repercussions under U.S. law if measures are not implemented, according to a senior Biden administration official.
During a visit to Israel on Tuesday, Blinken met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and other high-ranking military officials in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
These discussions are part of a broader regional tour aimed at rejuvenating diplomatic efforts following Israel’s recent killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
The account of Blinken’s direct communication with Israeli officials comes amid escalating criticism that the U.S. has not effectively addressed the rising civilian casualties in Gaza, largely due to its reluctance to leverage military aid to Israel.
The official revealed that Blinken urged Israeli leaders to clarify their military strategies, specifically addressing reports that they were employing a so-called “generals’ plan,” which allegedly involves mass forced displacements of civilians and a tactic of “surrender or starve.”
Israeli officials firmly denied this characterization, prompting the U.S. to insist on clearer public communication from their side.
Israel maintains that its operations in northern Gaza are aimed at dismantling Hamas forces. Blinken’s warning about humanitarian aid followed a letter he co-signed with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, which stipulated that Israel had 30 days to increase aid to northern Gaza or risk reductions in military support.
Despite some initial progress reported by Israeli officials, a senior State Department official emphasized that current measures are insufficient, stating, “We need to see more.”
Aid organizations have raised alarms over the risk of starvation for civilians in the region due to the military blockade, while the U.S. has cautioned Israel against forcibly relocating residents southward, where overcrowding and health risks are severe.
After the meetings, Netanyahu’s office released a statement focusing on the “Iranian threat,” omitting references to humanitarian concerns.
It also highlighted Blinken’s expressions of concern regarding a recent attempted assassination of Netanyahu, which Israel attributes to Iran.
As tensions mount, the U.S. is seeking to mitigate Israel’s military responses, particularly regarding retaliation against Iran, amid fears of escalating regional conflict.
Blinken also discussed the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon as part of diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities.
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