Israel’s response to the Biden administration’s 30-day ultimatum to enhance humanitarian assistance to Gaza has so far been lackluster, according to an analysis of U.N. and Israeli data by The Associated Press.
With a critical halfway point deadline looming in mid-November—following the U.S. election—President Joe Biden faces a pivotal moment in addressing the humanitarian crisis while balancing support for a key ally.
In an October 13 letter, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called for substantial improvements in Gaza’s dire humanitarian situation, specifically demanding that Israel allow a minimum of 350 trucks per day to deliver essential supplies.
Yet, by the end of October, an average of only 71 trucks were entering Gaza, far below the target.
Blinken emphasized that while there has been some progress, it remains insufficient.