Biden Again Urges Netanyahu to Prioritize Gaza Civilians' Safety
Once more, President Biden asked Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to prioritize the protection of civilians in the Gaza Strip. According to White House sources, Biden discussed this issue during a meeting at the White House.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused a significant humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Hundreds of Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed, and thousands more injured. Tens of thousands have been displaced from their homes.
The UN Security Council recently released a resolution calling for the "safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid on a large scale" to the Gaza Strip. While the resolution did not directly call for a ceasefire, it emphasized the importance of creating conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities.
The UN's Resolution
In the resolution, the UN Security Council demanded that all parties in the conflict refrain from acts that may endanger civilians, civilian objects, or objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population. It also called for access to water, electricity, and essential health care.
Thirteen of the fifteen UN Security Council members voted in favor of the resolution. The United States and Russia abstained. Despite the resolution, Israel continued its military operations in the Gaza Strip.
The Ceasefire Negotiations
Biden's call for civilians' protection comes at a time when negotiations for a ceasefire are ongoing. According to UN sources, talks between Israel and Hamas have been stalled, with disagreements over the timing and conditions of a truce.
Biden's stance on the conflict has been consistent. He has repeatedly called for the safety and well-being of civilians in the Gaza Strip, and he has criticized acts of violence against civilians on both sides.
In response to Biden's call, Netanyahu assured the White House that efforts were being made to minimize harm to civilians. However, the Israeli prime minister has also warned that the conflict may continue until Hamas dismantles its militant infrastructure in the Gaza Strip.
Humanitarian Aid
As the conflict continues, humanitarian organizations have stepped up efforts to provide aid to the affected population. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has been distributing essential items, including food, medicine, and shelter kits, to Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip.
However, access to the Gaza Strip has been limited by the ongoing conflict and Israeli restrictions. According to UNRWA, only 25% of its staff and supplies are currently able to enter the Gaza Strip, hampering relief efforts.
The International Response
The international community has been actively engaged in efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The European Union, the United Nations, and other countries have provided financial and humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
However, the response has been criticized by some as insufficient. Critics argue that the international community should do more to pressure Israel to respect international law and protect civilians in the Gaza Strip.
In summary, the situation in the Gaza Strip remains highly volatile. While a ceasefire has been reached, the humanitarian needs of the affected population are still considerable. President Biden's call for civilians' protection is a welcome reminder of the need to prioritize the civilian population in any resolution to the conflict.
