Biden Criticizes Israel’s Gaza Approach

In a significant shift in tone, U.S. President Joe Biden openly criticized Israel’s strategy in its ongoing conflict with Hamas, labeling it as a “mistake.” This critique comes at a critical juncture as Israel is required to demonstrate to its Supreme Court by Wednesday that it is not deliberately obstructing aid to Gaza, where famine looms. Amidst international condemnation over the war’s devastation, Biden’s remarks signify a departure from the steadfast support Israel has traditionally received from its principal ally, the U.S. He suggested a ceasefire and called for unrestricted access to food and medicine into Gaza for up to two months.

Biden’s comments align with efforts by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt to broker a ceasefire and facilitate increased aid deliveries to Gaza, grappling with an acute hunger crisis. Despite Israel’s assertions of compliance with demands to enhance aid provision, accusations persist of it limiting relief supplies, underlined by a legal challenge from five NGOs.

The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza has prompted UNRWA to report the denial of over 40% of its food delivery missions in recent months. With “catastrophic” food insecurity affecting half of Gaza’s population, the international community, including USAID, urges Israel to significantly augment aid deliveries.

The latest ceasefire proposition, amid contentious negotiations, outlines a cessation of hostilities for six weeks, an exchange of hostages and prisoners, and the allowance of up to 500 aid trucks into Gaza daily. Despite these diplomatic maneuvers, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to prioritize the return of all hostages and the eradication of militants from Gaza.

The ongoing conflict, ignited by Hamas’ attack on October 7, has not only claimed thousands of lives but also heightened international isolation for Netanyahu. With potential plans for a full-scale military assault on Rafah, where approximately 1.5 million Palestinians reside, U.S. officials have voiced concerns about the devastating impact on civilians and Israel’s security.

Amid these developments, the war’s brutality is starkly evident in the ruins of Gaza City’s Al-Shifa Hospital, highlighting the immense human and moral cost of the conflict.