October 18, 2024diplomaticIsrael Gaza warhumanitarian aidarms conditionsGaza starvationdiplomatic
Biden sends Israel final warning letter open Gaza aid corridors within 30 days
Senior U.S. officials send a letter to Israeli counterparts, described by the State Department as a "private diplomatic communication," warning that Israel must take concrete steps to increase humanitarian aid into Gaza within 30 days or face potential restrictions on U.S. weapons transfers. The letter cites the dire conditions in northern Gaza, where food supply has essentially collapsed. It is the most forceful U.S. pressure on Israel since October 7. Israel disputes the characterization of the humanitarian situation. The 30-day deadline passes without U.S. action, and no arms restrictions are imposed before Biden leaves office.