US Senator Marco Rubio has expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis (situation) in Gaza, stating that the US is “troubled” by the current state of affairs. This comes as at least 114 Palestinians were killed in Israeli air strikes on Thursday.
Humanitarian Situation
The region has been under a complete Israeli blockade of food and humanitarian supplies for 10 weeks, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. Rubio emphasized the need for Hamas to surrender and release hostages but also acknowledged the suffering of the people in Gaza, saying, “We’re not immune or in any way insensitive to the suffering of the people of Gaza”.
Recent Attacks and Casualties
- At least 56 people, including women and children, were killed in Israeli air strikes on Khan Younis, southern Gaza.
- A local journalist, Hassan Samour, and 11 members of his family were killed in an Israeli air strike on their home.
- 15 people, including 11 children, were killed when the al-Tawbah health clinic and prayer hall in Jabalia refugee camp was bombed.
Aid Distribution and Blockade
A US-backed organization plans to start work in Gaza within two weeks as part of a new US-Israeli aid distribution plan. However, the UN has rejected this plan, citing concerns over impartiality, neutrality, and independence. Rubio expressed openness to alternative aid plans, stating, “We’re open to an alternative” that ensures aid reaches residents without being intercepted by Hamas.
Rubio’s comments come as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a new offensive to wipe out Hamas, which sparked the war in Gaza on October 7, 2023. The US shares Netanyahu’s desire to eliminate Hamas but is concerned about the humanitarian impact on Gaza’s residents.