President Joe Biden has warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the United States will change its policy towards Gaza unless Israel takes immediate steps to address the humanitarian crisis. This warning comes after an Israeli strike killed seven aid workers in Gaza, marking a significant shift in the Biden administration's stance since Israel's war in Gaza began following the October 7 Hamas attacks. Biden also called for an immediate ceasefire.
During a phone call between Biden and Netanyahu, the U.S. President emphasized that the strikes on humanitarian workers and the overall humanitarian situation are unacceptable. The White House issued a readout stating that Biden stressed the need for Israel to announce and implement specific, concrete, and measurable steps to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of aid workers. The U.S. policy towards Gaza will be based on Israel's actions on these steps, according to the readout.
Observers noted the change in tone from Biden, who is facing domestic pressure to stop the bloodshed in Gaza. Daniel Kurtzer, former U.S. Ambassador to Israel, stated that Biden's words were intended to get Netanyahu's attention and bring about changes. He highlighted the significance of the strike on World Central Kitchen, an organization led by renowned chef Jose Andres, calling it a turning point in the conflict. Kurtzer emphasized that the strike targeted aid workers and vehicles, impacting both Palestinians in Gaza and Israelis.
