Blinken Reveals $135 Million Humanitarian Aid Package for Gaza

The United States is set to provide $135 million in new humanitarian aid to Gaza, as announced by Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Oct. 24.

During a press conference in Doha alongside Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Blinken appreciated Qatar for ensuring the delivery of essential supplies to the people of Gaza. He also highlighted the additional $135 million in aid that the U.S. is providing for water sanitation, maternal health, and humanitarian assistance in Gaza and the surrounding region.

This latest aid package brings the total U.S. humanitarian support for Gaza to over $1.2 billion since the conflict began over a year ago.

The Israeli military operations in Gaza are a response to the Hamas attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, resulting in casualties and hostages. The ongoing conflict has led to a significant number of casualties, predominantly among women, children, and the elderly.

Blinken emphasized the necessity of aid reaching those in need, calling for improved coordination and access for aid organizations to provide essential supplies in Gaza.

He and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sent a letter to the Israeli government urging specific actions to ensure aid distribution in Gaza, giving a 30-day deadline for improvements to be made.

The U.S. government is closely monitoring the situation and the progress of the requested improvements, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian access in Gaza.

Despite reports of controversial military plans, Israel has assured the U.S. that they are not pursuing such actions and are committed to humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

Blinken reiterated the need for a cease-fire and hostage exchange to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

President Joe Biden’s administration views Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar’s death as an opportunity to advance negotiations for a cease-fire agreement.