Blinken Pressures Israel for Increased Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israeli PM Netanyahu to improve humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza. Despite commitments from Israeli leaders, U.N. data shows aid levels have drastically fallen. Blinken's visit to Israel came as part of a broader Middle East tour addressing humanitarian concerns.

Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, urging for more humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza. This comes as aid deliveries to the region hit their lowest levels this year.

Blinken engaged in extensive discussions with Netanyahu and other top Israeli officials, emphasizing the need for action following a joint letter sent earlier this month by him and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The letter warned of potential U.S. military aid restrictions if the humanitarian situation in Gaza isn't improved.

Though Israeli authorities assured the U.S. of their commitment, aid is still being hindered, reportedly due to ongoing military operations targeting Hamas. Blinken continues his Middle East tour, striving for immediate and effective humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)