US President Joe Biden has warned Israel that it cannot use aid as a “bargaining chip” in its fight against Hamas and called for an immediate temporary ceasefire in Gaza, where fears of impending famine have multiplied.
Using his annual State of the Union address to deliver some of his strongest comments yet on the five-month war, Biden also ordered the US military to lead an “urgent mission” to build a temporary dock near Gaza to allow more aid deliveries.
His address to Congress comes as hopes for a new truce before the start of Ramadan are fading after Hamas negotiators abandoned talks with mediators in Egypt to consult with the movement’s leadership in Qatar.
– To the leadership of Israel I say this – humanitarian aid cannot be a secondary consideration or a bargaining chip – said Biden.
– Protection and saving of innocent lives must be a priority – he emphasized.
Biden said the temporary port would be able to “accommodate large ships carrying food, water, medicine and temporary shelters.”
Biden, who has faced political pressure for his unwavering support for Israel despite the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stressed that “there will be no American boots on the ground” as part of the project.
US personnel will remain at sea while allies manage land operations from the port. The plan would also include a maritime assistance corridor from Cyprus.
