According to a US official, if Israel fails to fully implement US demands by November 13, the United States could suspend its military aid to Israel, a step that the Biden administration has so far avoided but is gaining more support within the State Department.
The website said that determining whether Israel has fulfilled its obligations to the United States and whether it violated American law during the war in Gaza could be the first major decision that the Biden administration must make during the transitional period after the presidential elections.
Over the past few weeks, the Israeli army carried out an operation in northern Gaza that led to a sharp reduction in humanitarian aid to the area to its lowest levels since the war began more than a year ago.
Israel says the goal of the operation, which focuses on the city of Jabalia, is to prevent Palestinian factions from regrouping. The Palestinians there now have little food and medical supplies and are subjected to violent bombardment. At least 50,000 Palestinians have been forced to leave the area since the start of the operation.
Aid organizations say the Israeli operation resembles a plan proposed by former Israeli generals to close off northern Gaza and starve any Palestinian faction activists until they surrender. The Israeli government and army deny they are implementing the plan, but American officials are increasingly skeptical of the Israeli operation.
Source: “Axios”
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**Interview with Dr. Maya El-Amin, International Relations Expert**
**Interviewer:** Dr. El-Amin, thank you for joining us today. With the recent reports of the United States warning Israel about military aid amidst the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, what do you think the implications could be for US-Israel relations if the aid were to be suspended?
**Dr. El-Amin:** Thank you for having me. The suspension of military aid would mark a significant shift in US-Israel relations. Historically, military support has been a cornerstone of the relationship, reflecting both strategic interests and political alliances. If the US follows through with cutting aid, it could signal a new approach to international diplomacy in the region, and potentially empower other countries or factions in the conflict.
**Interviewer:** Many are questioning whether the US response is adequate given the humanitarian situation. Some argue that allowing aid deliveries to drastically decrease while military operations continue is not a sustainable solution. What’s your perspective on that?
**Dr. El-Amin:** I agree that the humanitarian situation is dire, and a balanced approach is crucial. Aid organizations’ reports suggest that the current Israeli operations may further exacerbate the crisis, similar to tactics proposed by former military leaders. The question for many would be: should the US prioritize humanitarian needs over military alliances? This brings us to a crucial debate about the moral obligations of a superpower supporting an ally that is involved in such controversial military operations.
**Interviewer:** That raises an important point. How do you see public opinion in the United States evolving on this issue, especially as the presidential elections approach?
**Dr. El-Amin:** Public opinion is indeed shifting. Increasingly, Americans are becoming aware of the humanitarian implications of this conflict. As we approach the elections, candidates will need to navigate these complex views. Ignoring the humanitarian crisis may alienate voters, particularly younger demographics who are more vocal about human rights issues. Ultimately, how the candidates address this will be pivotal in influencing both domestic and foreign policy.
**Interviewer:** what kind of debate do you think this situation will spark among the American public, especially regarding Israel’s right to defend itself versus the need to ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza?
**Dr. El-Amin:** This debate will be multifaceted and charged with emotional weight. On one side, you have arguments centered on national security and Israel’s right to protect itself from perceived threats. On the other, there’s a growing call for humanitarian responsibility and a recognition of Palestinian suffering. I expect a robust discussion will unfold about the balance between these competing interests and what it means for US foreign policy moving forward.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. El-Amin, for sharing your insights on this complex and urgent issue.
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**Question for Readers:** As the US considers potential cuts to military aid, do you believe prioritizing humanitarian aid in conflict zones like Gaza should take precedence over military support to allies? Why or why not?
