During a meeting between Israeli leaders and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, it was reiterated that Israel does not have a policy of isolating northern Gaza despite the United Nations reporting ongoing denials of humanitarian aid requests. The UN has been attempting to deliver life-saving supplies to the area, including blood, medications, food, and fuel to hospitals and water facilities. Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin had previously given Israel 30 days to increase basic humanitarian aid to Gaza, with consequences for U.S. military assistance if this was not met. Israel outlined steps taken in response to this letter, but Blinken emphasized that more action was needed. While some assistance did reach Gaza on Monday, it was unclear how much actually reached the population. Israeli officials assured Blinken that they were committed to the actions outlined by the Biden administration but emphasized that results were what mattered. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office did not mention humanitarian assistance in the readout of the meeting. The importance of increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza was a key topic during discussions, and both Israeli and U.S. officials recognized the urgency and need for sustained action within the promised 30 days.
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Blinken emphasizes to Israel the need for further aid increases in Gaza
