A recent report by investigative news outlet ProPublica has revealed that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken ignored assessments indicating that Israel had blocked US aid to Gaza earlier this year. Multiple US government agencies and officials had provided evidence of Israel subjecting US humanitarian aid to arbitrary denials and restrictions, but Blinken presented a different conclusion to Congress in May.
The leaked memos would have had significant implications on US policy, potentially triggering a ban on arms transfers to Israel under US law. The US provides Israel with billions in military aid annually, with additional funds approved this year to support the Israeli government’s efforts in the Gaza war. The State Department’s report, which denied Israel was blocking US aid, highlighted bureaucratic delays and military strikes on humanitarian movements.
The Israeli military’s actions in Gaza have resulted in a high number of Palestinian casualties and widespread suffering, with reports of malnutrition and starvation amongst the population. CIA Director Bill Burns acknowledged the dire situation in Gaza, highlighting the challenges in delivering humanitarian assistance.
The White House and US Ambassador to Israel have also acknowledged Israeli efforts to obstruct US aid to Gaza earlier this year. Despite assurances from Israeli officials, concerns remain about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, as highlighted by the International Court of Justice’s ruling on Israeli occupation and obligations under the Fourth Geneva Convention.
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