Israel has notified the United States that it will open an additional crossing for aid into Gaza, as stated by the U.S. State Department on Thursday, November 8, 2024. This decision comes as a U.S.-imposed deadline approaches next week.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin have set a deadline of November 13 for Israel to enhance the humanitarian situation in Gaza or face potential withholding of certain military assistance from the United States, Israel’s primary supporter.
These demands were outlined in a letter sent prior to the election of President-elect Donald Trump, who has expressed support for Israel’s actions.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller mentioned that Israel, after reopening the Erez crossing, has informed the United States of their intention to open a new crossing at Kissufim in the coming days.
“We have continued to urge them, and we have observed additional steps taken by them, especially in the days following the election,” stated Mr. Miller to reporters.
He refrained from speculating on how the United States would evaluate Israel’s compliance with the aid requirements.
The letter from Mr. Blinken and Mr. Austin called for a consistent flow of aid through four main crossings and the opening of a fifth crossing.
Kissufim, located near a kibbutz facing southern Gaza which was targeted in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that triggered the conflict, has been largely inactive since Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza in 2005.
The letter specified a minimum of 350 trucks per day to be allowed into Gaza, with 229 trucks reported entering on Tuesday.
Outgoing President Joe Biden has consistently urged Israel to enhance humanitarian aid and protect civilians, although refraining from utilizing tactics such as weapon sanctions.
Mr. Miller mentioned that Mr. Blinken aims to continue advocating for an end to the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon throughout the remainder of his term.
Published – November 08, 2024 08:29 am IST
