88 lawmakers urge Biden to reconsider support for Israel following aid blockage in Gaza

A group of 88 Democratic members of Congress is urging the Biden administration to reconsider its aid to Israel, citing concerns that the US partner is obstructing American aid to Palestinian civilians in violation of federal law.

In a letter to the White House, the lawmakers argued that Israel’s restrictions on US-backed humanitarian aid efforts have led to a humanitarian crisis for Palestinian civilians, with reports of famine in parts of Gaza. They emphasized that US support for Israel should not be unconditional, pointing to Section 620I of the Foreign Assistance Act, which prohibits the US from providing security assistance to countries that impede the delivery of US humanitarian aid.

Humanitarian officials have been warning of dire consequences due to restrictions on aid to Gaza, with reports of full-blown famine in the region. Acute malnutrition among children under 5 has skyrocketed, and medical facilities are overwhelmed with children seeking treatment.

Israel has denied unduly restricting aid flow, accusing the UN of inefficiency and militant groups of looting supplies. However, international observers argue that Israel’s inspection procedures and restrictions hinder aid delivery.

Some have even suggested that Israel’s actions may constitute war crimes, with the UN human rights chief stating that the restrictions on aid and conduct of hostilities could amount to the use of starvation as a method of war.

The Biden administration has expressed concern over civilian harm and humanitarian suffering in Gaza, with President Biden condemning the Israeli military strike on aid workers. The White House has warned that future US policy towards Israel will depend on concrete steps to address these issues.