Humanitarian aid to Gaza is on the brink of disruption in the wake of escalating military support from the United States. The Pentagon and the State Department have issued a warning to Israel, stating that if the humanitarian situation in Gaza does not improve within 30 days, military shipments from the US may come to a halt. Since the onset of the conflict between Hamas and Israel in October 2023, the US has provided nearly $18 billion in military assistance. The continued flow of these resources is deemed contingent upon Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law. In a letter addressed to key Israeli officials, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need for “concrete measures” to address the dwindling humanitarian aid entering Gaza.
According to US officials, there has been a significant decline in the volume of humanitarian assistance reaching Gaza. A spokesperson for the State Department, Matthew Miller, stated that this ongoing deterioration in aid deliveries has raised serious concerns within the Biden administration. Recent reports indicate that aid levels fell by over 50%, with September seeing the lowest figures in over a year. Tensions surrounding this issue have been compounded by a previous communication from the US to Israel earlier this year, which briefly improved the situation, but the current status reflects a troubling reversal.
The urgency of the Biden administration’s letter is underscored by the introduction of National Security Memorandum 20 (NSM-20) in February 2023. This memorandum outlines the expectations that recipients of US military aid must meet, including providing credible assurances of adherence to international laws. The potential repercussions of non-compliance could impact US policy and its military aid framework, placing significant pressure on Israel to facilitate humanitarian access to Gaza. The administration has been explicit about the legal ramifications associated with declining aid, asserting that compliance with international standards is a precondition to ongoing military support.
As the geopolitical landscape shifts, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces growing pressure to adhere to US demands, even if it means reevaluating tactical military plans against Hamas. Reports from Israeli defense sources indicate that the Biden administration’s push may compel a reassessment of Israel’s military approach in Gaza. Furthermore, Washington has urged Israel to adopt diplomatic measures over military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon, highlighting the US’s broader strategy in the region.
This development is particularly significant, considering the timing relative to the upcoming US presidential election. The Biden administration’s support for Israel has faced scrutiny, especially amidst a growing discontent among Palestinian and Arab-American voters. Vice President Kamala Harris, who has been actively mobilizing in these communities, may find her efforts complicated by the government’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The 30-day ultimatum allows the US to navigate domestic electoral pressures while simultaneously adhering to international legal commitments.
The intersection of humanitarian concerns with military support underscores a complex balance for the Biden administration. While it seeks to maintain a strong alliance with Israel, the implications for military aid amidst humanitarian crises present a delicate diplomatic challenge. The administration’s commitment to uphold international laws may ultimately shape the trajectory of US-Israel relations, and the immediate future of humanitarian aid to Gaza is now intricately tied to these evolving dynamics. As the deadline approaches, the international community watches closely, aware that the unfolding situation will have far-reaching implications.
