The United States has called on Israel to implement a ceasefire in its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. The ceasefire is intended to allow essential aid, such as food and medical supplies, to reach civilians. The U.S. also indicated that if Israel does not comply, it may reconsider its military aid and support.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin sent a formal request to Israeli leaders, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire by the end of October. They stressed that failure to do so could lead to a shift in U.S. policy regarding the conflict.
In the letter, the U.S. also urged Israel to allow 350 aid trucks into Gaza and refrain from relocating civilians without a clear military necessity. However, there has been no confirmation from the White House on whether President Joe Biden endorsed the letter.
This marks the first time since the conflict began that the U.S. has explicitly requested a ceasefire, highlighting a potential change in its stance on military support for Israel, which has historically included billions of dollars in aid.
