The recent airdrops in Gaza have been criticized by some aid experts as being insufficient and mainly symbolic. However, the statement emphasized that these airdrops are part of the ongoing efforts of the U.S. government to provide crucial humanitarian assistance to the people in Gaza. The statement also mentioned that there are plans for potential follow-up airborne aid delivery missions.
During a briefing, a U.S. official revealed that 66 pallets were dropped over Gaza, with drop sites carefully chosen in relatively safe areas where people are seeking shelter and in need of aid. The official also stated that the U.S. did not coordinate this operation with Hamas or any other group on the ground.
This initial drop is part of a sustained campaign, and the U.S. is exploring other methods, including sea transport, to bring more aid into Gaza. The officials speaking at the briefing requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the military operations and diplomatic efforts.
These airdrops come in response to President Biden’s commitment to finding new ways to provide aid to Palestinians affected by Israel’s military campaign against Hamas. The U.S. officials acknowledged that ground convoys allowed into Gaza are not sufficient to address the urgent needs of the Palestinians. However, they also cautioned that airdrops have limitations in terms of scale and distribution.
The primary U.S. objective is to negotiate a pause in fighting to allow for increased truck traffic into Gaza. Efforts are underway to achieve a limited cease-fire that would facilitate the release of vulnerable Israeli hostages and the entry of more aid convoys into the territory.
According to a U.S. official, Israel has agreed to a plan for a six-week cease-fire, and the U.S. is working with other countries to persuade Hamas to accept the deal. However, the timing of the next airdrop remains uncertain due to poor weather forecasts for Gaza on Sunday.
As hunger and illness continue to rise in Gaza, U.S. officials have been urging Israel to allow more aid convoys into the territory, but challenges persist due to lawlessness and criminal activity within Gaza. Criminal gangs are exploiting the aid shortage, leading to exorbitant prices and hindering effective distribution.
2024-03-02 14:18:51
Post from www.nytimes.com
