The White House Outrage Over Israeli Attack on Aid Workers in Gaza
The White House has expressed outrage over the recent Israeli attack that killed seven workers from World Central Kitchen in Gaza. US President Joe Biden is set to hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, just three days after the attack. While the White House has condemned the attack, there has been no fundamental change in its support for Israel. The Biden Administration is expected to address the need for better protection for humanitarian workers during the call.
Continued Mourning and Support
The White House, along with Chef Jose Andres and the affected families, will continue to mourn the loss of the World Central Kitchen Aid workers. President Biden’s statement regarding the attack was powerful and impactful, reflecting his deep concern for the current situation. Despite the outrage, the White House remains steadfast in its support for Israel.
World Central Kitchen founder, Jose Andres, has confirmed that the food Aid operation has been halted temporarily. The organization is assessing the situation hour by hour to determine how to safely resume their operations. World Central Kitchen provides aid in various regions, including Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, and Armenia.
Escalating Pressure on Biden and Western Nations
As the Biden Administration considers $1.8 billion in arms transfers to Israel, there is growing pressure on President Biden and other Western Nations to halt the supply of arms. The attack on the aid workers has intensified calls for a reevaluation of arms transfers to Israel. Critics argue that providing arms while humanitarian workers are targeted contradicts the principles of aid and support.
Concerns about Aid Deliveries and Ceasefire Negotiations
There is significant concern about the slow pace of aid deliveries on land, prompting the United States to carry out air drops and build a temporary pier for shipments from the sea. Negotiations have been ongoing between US and Israeli representatives regarding Israel’s anticipated offensive in Rafa. Virtual meetings have taken place, with plans for further discussions and an in-person meeting next week. The talks also aim to reach a potential ceasefire agreement.
Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh has reiterated his movement’s conditions for a ceasefire in Gaza, which include a complete Israeli military withdrawal. The talks seek to secure a temporary ceasefire in exchange for the release of sick, elderly, and wounded hostages held by Hamas.
Biden’s Concerns and Assurances
President Biden is concerned about two main issues: humanitarian aid and the safety of civilians in Rafa. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is escalating, with reports suggesting the possibility of an actual famine. Biden is expected to raise this issue during his talks with Netanyahu, emphasizing the need to allow the delivery of essential supplies and to stop targeting aid workers.
The second concern is the safety of civilians in the Rafa area. The US has urged Israel to present a concrete plan for moving civilians out of the war zone in an orderly fashion. The current plans offered by Israel are deemed unrealistic, and Biden will likely emphasize the need for a realistic and effective plan.
Possible Consequences and Pressuring Israel
Vice President Kamala Harris has stated thatshe is not ruling out any consequences if Israeli operations proceed in Rafa. The nature of the consequences would depend on the type of military aid involved. Defensive aid is still likely to be provided, but offensive weapons may face restrictions. The US could reduce or suspend military assistance as a form of pressure on Israel. Additionally, the US could change its stance in the UN Security Council vote, moving from abstaining to voting against Israel.
Prime Minister Netanyahu is already under tremendous pressure, facing challenges from Benny Gantz in the polls and calls for early elections in September. The ongoing war and Netanyahu’s handling of the situation have raised concerns among political leaders. Comparisons have been made to historical examples where leadership changes occurred during wartime.
Overall, the White House’s outrage over the attack on aid workers in Gaza is coupled with a continued commitment to support Israel. President Biden seeks assurances from Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding humanitarian aid and the safety of civilians in Rafa. The discussions between the US and Israel also touch on the potential consequences and pressure that the US may exert on Israel. The situation remains complex and will require ongoing negotiations to reach a ceasefire and address the pressing humanitarian crisis.
