Aid for Gaza: The United States, Egypt, and Israel have expressed their readiness to facilitate the movement of humanitarian aid into Gaza. This comes after a visit to Israel by U.S. President Joe Biden and offers hope for providing relief to civilians in Gaza, especially in the wake of a recent devastating hospital blast.
Hospital Blast: The U.S. Senate’s Select Committee on Intelligence, led by both Democrats and Republicans, is confident that the hospital blast in Gaza was not caused by an Israeli airstrike but by a failed rocket launch by militant terrorists. Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a militant group, is suspected to be responsible. Israeli officials have released audio recordings that support this claim.
Additional Explosions: There were reported explosions near Al-Quds Hospital in Gaza City, and Hezbollah conducted attacks on Israeli military posts along the Lebanese border. The situation in the region remains tense.
Humanitarian Aid: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi agreed to open the Rafah crossing into Gaza for humanitarian aid following discussions with President Biden. Israel has also indicated that it won’t block humanitarian aid through the crossing, but they demand the release of hostages by Hamas. The details about when the crossing will open for aid remain uncertain.
Biden’s Visit: President Biden’s visit to Israel was characterized by frank discussions with Israeli leaders. He emphasized the need for more assistance to those affected by the conflict and held the leaders accountable. The details of efforts to evacuate Americans and other civilians from Gaza were not disclosed, but President Biden assured that these efforts are ongoing.
International Involvement: President Biden will deliver a primetime address from the Oval Office on the U.S. response to the situation in the Middle East. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to visit Israel, and Jordan reaffirmed its stance against any attempt to transfer the Palestinian population to Jordan.