Israeli leaders reassured Secretary of State Antony Blinken that it is not their policy to isolate northern Gaza, despite the United Nations reporting that their requests to deliver humanitarian aid to the area have been denied. Blinken had emphasized the importance of increasing humanitarian aid during his discussions with Israeli officials, noting that the U.S. had seen initial progress in certain areas but that more action was needed. Israel stated that they were taking steps to address the concerns raised in a letter from Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin that gave them 30 days to increase basic humanitarian aid to Gaza or face restrictions on U.S. military assistance. While some aid trucks crossed into Gaza, it was unclear if the assistance reached the population. Israel assured Blinken that they were committed to fulfilling the actions outlined in the letter and emphasized that results were important. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office did not mention humanitarian assistance in the readout issued after the meeting with Blinken. Both parties acknowledged the U.S.’s concerns and the need for sustained action within the 30-day timeframe.
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