WASHINGTON, USA: The U.S. State Department has expressed deep concern over the lack of essential aid reaching civilians in Gaza’s northern Jabalia region, where food, water, and medical supplies are critically needed.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized that the U.S. strongly opposes any form of siege on Gaza, warning against isolating northern Gaza as a closed military zone.
The Palestinian Civil Emergency Service reported that approximately 100,000 civilians in Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun are without basic medical and food supplies, with emergency services severely disrupted due to Israel’s intensified military operations in the area. This comes as part of Israel’s campaign to prevent Hamas from regrouping following the recent death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
Amid these developments, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed with Israel a proposal by retired military commanders advising civilians in northern Gaza to evacuate. Although Israel has stated it is not implementing this “generals plan,” Washington continues to closely monitor the situation, with a 30-day review period to assess whether Israel meets humanitarian guidelines to ensure aid access, potentially impacting U.S. military aid if unmet.
Additionally, Israel’s parliament has enacted legislation banning the UN relief agency UNRWA from operating in Gaza, a move met with U.S. disapproval given UNRWA’s key role in delivering aid to civilians in Gaza. The U.S. reiterated its position, calling on all parties to ensure that humanitarian corridors remain open to alleviate civilian suffering.
