Biden Warns Netanyahu: US Support for War Contingent on Ensuring Safeguarding of Civilians

President Joe Biden conveyed to Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday that future U.S. support for Gaza war hinges on new measures to safeguard civilians and aid workers.

Biden and Netanyahu discussed the recent Israeli airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of seven food aid workers in Gaza, further complicating their already strained relationship.

“He emphasized the importance of Israel announcing and implementing specific, concrete, and measurable actions to address harm to civilians, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of aid workers,” stated the White House in a post-call statement. “He underscored that U.S. policy towards Gaza will be based on Israel’s immediate response to these actions.”

During the call, Biden also urged Netanyahu for an “immediate ceasefire” and encouraged Israel to reach an agreement “promptly,” as per the White House.

The discussion took place as the World Central Kitchen, established by chef José Andrés to provide food relief in disaster areas, demanded an independent inquiry into the Israeli airstrikes that led to the deaths of the group’s members, including an American citizen.

Although calling on Israel to do more to prevent harm to innocent civilians and aid workers during operations in Gaza, the White House stated that the U.S. does not intend to conduct its own investigation.