Today, with the support of the U.S. government, a humanitarian convoy of 20 trucks - including those from the United Nations - transported emergency assistance into Gaza, where the suspension of critical supplies like water and electricity have contributed to a grave humanitarian crisis. These twenty trucks are carrying urgently-needed medicine, food, and water to Palestinian civilians in need. We commend the intensive diplomatic efforts that led to this first convoy to Gaza since the start of hostilities and continue to stress the importance of the continuous delivery of assistance.
We remain extremely concerned about civilian access to water, fuel, food, and other supplies in Gaza. The United States has been clear that safe, sustained access for humanitarian assistance to reach civilians in need is imperative. We also have been clear that any interference or diversion of aid by Hamas will jeopardize the continuation of that life-saving assistance. We continue to work with the UN and other international organizations, Israel, and Egypt to create the channels for life-saving assistance to flow continuously into Gaza, where our trusted UN, International Committee of the Red Cross, and Red Crescent partners are ready to distribute to those in need. As Israel defends itself, the United States also continues to underscore the importance of respecting the rule of law and international humanitarian law obligations for the protection of civilian life.
The United States will continue to support civilians in need with life-saving humanitarian assistance and undertake all efforts to address this crisis.
