During a recent telephone conversation between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the topic of the recent attacks on humanitarian workers in the Gaza Strip was discussed. Biden condemned the attacks as unacceptable and emphasized the need for Israel to take measures to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of humanitarian workers.
The conversation took place shortly after an Israeli bombing that resulted in the deaths of seven workers from NGO World Central Kitchen (WCK), including American nationals. Biden made it clear that US policy towards the situation in Gaza is contingent upon Israel taking concrete and measurable steps to ensure that humanitarian workers are safe and that civilians are protected. He also urged Netanyahu to expedite an agreement for the return of hostages captured by Hamas.
The bombing that claimed the lives of WCK workers has caused international concern, with citizens from various countries losing their lives in the attack. In response to this incident, Israel announced an investigation into what happened. Beyond discussing the situation in Gaza, Biden and Netanyahu also addressed threats made by Iran in response to an Israeli bombing of Iranian Consulate in Damascus.
President Biden reaffirmed US support for Israel amid these threats from Iran, emphasizing the importance of addressing civilian harm, providing humanitarian assistance, and ensuring the safety of humanitarian workers in the region. The conversation between Biden and Netanyahu highlights ongoing tensions and violence in the Middle East, as well as underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to conflict.
Biden’s stance on this issue is clear: he wants Israel to take action to protect civilians and ensure humanitarian assistance can reach those who need it most. While he understands that military action may be necessary at times, he believes that peace must ultimately prevail if there is any hope for long-term stability in this volatile region.
