What's happened
A group of 88 Democratic members of Congress have written to the White House urging a reevaluation of aid to Israel due to concerns over the blocking of humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians. Scores of Democrats in the US House of Representatives have also called on President Biden to consider halting arms sales to Israel if it doesn't change its conduct in the war against Hamas.
Why it matters
The calls from Democratic lawmakers to reconsider aid to Israel over humanitarian concerns highlight growing pressure on the Biden administration to address the situation in Gaza. The issue of restrictions on humanitarian aid to Palestinians is a contentious one, with aid organizations warning of devastating consequences.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, the coalition of 88 Democratic members argued that Israel's restrictions on US-backed humanitarian aid efforts have led to a humanitarian disaster for Palestinian civilians. The Times of Israel reported that the lawmakers voiced concerns about Israel's conduct in the war against Hamas and the withholding of humanitarian aid. Axios highlighted that the lawmakers cited a memo signed by Biden in February requiring Israel to ensure the flow of aid into Gaza.
How we got here
The situation stems from ongoing conflict in the region, with Israel facing criticism for its actions in Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian aid. Aid organizations have long complained about obstacles to delivering relief to those in need inside Gaza. The issue has escalated as lawmakers push for a reevaluation of US support for Israel.
Common question
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Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who is the 46th and current president of the United States. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 and represented Delaware in the United States Senate
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