Biden, Netanyahu to hold first call since fatal strike on US-based NGO in Gaza

U.S. President Joe Biden prepares for critical call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following disputed airstrike in Gaza

U.S. President Joe Biden is scheduled to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday.

This marks their first conversation following the fatal Israeli strike on a humanitarian convoy in Gaza that killed seven aid workers. The incident has heightened U.S.-Israel tensions and drawn international criticism.

President Biden, leading a chorus of global dismay, condemned the attack on World Central Kitchen (WCK) employees, distributing essential food to a population nearing famine.

“I was outraged and heartbroken,” Biden said, reflecting his growing frustration with Israel’s conduct in the war against Hamas.

In response to the attack, which included victims from multiple countries, Biden demanded that Israel intensify its efforts to protect aid workers and civilians. He stressed, “Incidents like yesterday’s simply should not happen.”

Meanwhile, Netanyahu acknowledged the Israeli military’s responsibility for the strike, describing it as unintentional. The U.S., while expressing outrage, continues to uphold Israel’s right to self-defense without indicating any plans to reduce arms supplies.

The strike’s aftermath has severely impacted humanitarian efforts in Gaza. WCK, labeling the attack “targeted,” halted its operations, leading to the withdrawal of essential supplies from the region. Other organizations have similarly reassessed their activities, complicating the delivery of aid to Gaza’s 2.4 million people who are already facing an acute food shortage.

In a related development, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin communicated his shock to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and stressed immediate measures to safeguard aid workers and Palestinian civilians. Austin insisted on a “swift and transparent” investigation, public sharing of conclusions, and accountability for those responsible.

This upcoming dialogue between Biden and Netanyahu is anticipated to be a critical moment in U.S.-Israel relations against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and mounting humanitarian concerns.

Source: Newsroom