In a striking, and larger than life State of the Union address, President Joe Biden has pledged urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The President announced that the US military will construct a temporary port on Gaza’s Mediterranean coast to facilitate large-scale humanitarian aid deliveries by sea. This comes in response to the looming threat of famine and mass displacement in the region, primarily caused by ongoing attacks from Israel.
President Biden, initially seen as an ally to Israel’s right to defend itself, has now openly criticized the Benjamin Netanyahu government for its role in the impending famine in the Palestinian enclave. The President emphasized the importance of prioritizing the protection of innocent lives and called for a comprehensive solution, hinting at a two-state resolution over time.
Addressing Israel directly, President Biden declared, “Humanitarian assistance cannot be a secondary consideration or a bargaining chip. Protecting and saving innocent lives has to be a priority.” He expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of Israel’s military campaign on Gaza, with a death toll surpassing 30,000 in the fifth month of the conflict.
President Biden’s announcement included a directive for the US military to lead an emergency mission to establish a temporary pier in the Mediterranean on the Gaza coast. This pier will serve as a vital point for receiving large ships carrying essential supplies such as food, water, medicine, and temporary shelters. Importantly, Biden assured that no US boots would be on the ground, focusing on enabling a significant increase in daily humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
While extending a helping hand, President Biden also urged Israel to play its part in resolving the crisis, emphasizing the collective responsibility to address the dire situation in the region.
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