US warns Israel against restricting Gaza aid, eyes election fallout.
In a rare move, top US officials have asked Israel to improve humanitarian access to Gaza within a month or face legal action over American military aid.
A joint letter by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin conveyed “deep concerns” regarding the situation and sought “urgent action” from Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Ron Dermer.
Referencing a 50% aid drop since spring and the lowest September shipments in a year, Washington said recent Israeli curbs like import halts and permit hurdles were exacerbating deteriorating conditions.
The US said it must continually review Israeli pledges under domestic laws governing foreign military assistance.
Experts view this as a warning that such ties may be in jeopardy without addressing the crisis in the Palestinian enclave soon.
Significantly, the deadline falls after the November 5 presidential elections, indicating the Joe Biden administration wants to avoid any backlash over the issue at the ballot.
As West Asia tensions flare, the strong-worded message marks US pressure on Israel to ease the blockade of Gaza’s two million residents reliant on humanitarian relief.
