(Luis Cornelio, Headline USA) Israeli Defense Minister Yaov Gallant admitted that U.S. President Joe Biden was the driving force behind the recent decision to authorize $100 million in humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, despite its control by the Hamas militant group.
Speaking before a group of Israeli lawmakers in the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, Gallant cited the United States’ influence over Israel as a driving factor in the contentious decision.
“The Americans insisted and we are not in a place where we can refuse them. We rely on them for planes and military equipment. What are we supposed to do? Tell them no?” Gallant alleged, as reported by the Times of Israel.
The aid sparked intense criticism from the families of individuals held captive in Gaza. According to the Israeli government, over 200 individuals are reportedly held hostage by Hamas following the terror group’s attack against Israel on Oct. 7.
Just as I figured. Biden-Blinken threatening Israel. https://t.co/Hhvw4d5rS0
— Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) October 21, 2023
Condemnation was voiced by the Bring Them Home Now organization, which represents the families of those kidnapped.
“The decision to allow humanitarian aid to the murderers of Gaza has caused great anger among the family members,” the organization stated on Oct. 19, according to the Times of Israel. “We remind you that children, babies, women, soldiers, men and the elderly — some of whom have serious health issues, are wounded and shot — are being held underground like animals without any human conditions, and the government of Israel is treating the murderers to baklava and medicine.”
Following the aid’s announcement, Hamas released two U.S. citizens held in captivity. Judith Raanan and her 17-year-old daughter, Natalie, who were abducted from a kibbutz during their visit, were freed following the alleged intervention of the Qatari government.
Biden defended the decision, stressing the importance of protecting Palestinians in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip.
“Civilian lives must be protected and assistance must urgently reach those in need,” the White House said on Oct. 18. “We will continue to work closely with partners in the region to stress the importance of upholding the law of war, supporting those who are trying to get to safety or provide assistance, and facilitating access to food, water, medical care, and shelter.”
