Originally published October 18, 2023 9:45 am PDT
In a Wednesday announcement, President Biden has committed to providing a significant humanitarian package to the Palestinian territories.
The United States will allocate “$100 million in humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank,” aiming to alleviate the suffering of over a million displaced and conflict-affected individuals.
In detail, the newly designated funding aims to support those in desperate need by providing “clean water, food, hygiene support, medical care, and other essential needs.”
To ensure the proper distribution and utilization of the funds, the U.S. will work through “trusted partners including UN agencies and international NGOs.”
Addressing concerns regarding the context in which this aid is being provided, the White House statement was clear: “Civilians are not to blame and should not suffer for Hamas’s horrific terrorism.”
Reinforcing the critical distinction between civilians and combatants, the statement emphasizes the importance of civilian protection and the urgent need for relief.
Moreover, the U.S. government is emphasizing its commitment to not just provide assistance but to actively engage with partners in the region.
The goal is to “stress the importance of upholding the law of war, supporting those who are trying to get to safety or provide assistance, and facilitating access to food, water, medical care, and shelter.”
Biden’s monetary commitment follows Israel’s request to the U.S. for $10 billion in emergency military aid.
It also follows the U.S., which last month hit $33 trillion in debt, sending Ukraine another $1.15 billion in budgetary aid.
