Biden Commits $100 Million to Gaza and West Bank, Puts Hamas on Notice: Aid Must Reach Those in Need, Not Terrorists

US President Joe Biden has announced a humanitarian assistance package of USD 100 million for both Gaza and the West Bank amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The aid will support over one million displaced and conflict-affected Palestinians, and mechanisms will be put in place to ensure it reaches those in need, not Hamas or terrorist groups.

Biden stated that Israel believed in the fundamental dignity of every human life, which sets them apart from terrorists. He emphasized that the people of Gaza need essential resources like food, water, medicine, and shelter, and urged the Israeli cabinet to agree to the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. Israel has agreed to move the aid from Egypt to Gaza, but if Hamas diverts or steals it, it will demonstrate their disregard for the welfare of the Palestinian people.

Biden reaffirmed the United States' unwavering support for Israel, offering assistance for their defense and condemning the attack on Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack as well, stating that the world's outrage should be directed at the terrorists, not Israel. The US President also planned to ask Congress for an unprecedented support package for Israel's defense and deploy military assets to the region to prevent further aggression. Biden highlighted that Hamas does not represent the majority of Palestinians and that the Palestinian people are suffering greatly as well.