Israel Secures Gaza Aid Zones Without Distributing Supplies, US Ambassador Says

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee clarified that while Israel will participate in providing security for humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza, it will not be involved in the actual distribution or transportation of aid supplies. Israel has maintained a blockade on aid to Gaza since March but the delivery of humanitarian assistance is not contingent on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Huckabee emphasized that the aid operation involves multiple groups and that Israel's role is limited to securing distribution zones to prevent Hamas from diverting supplies. He held Hamas responsible for the dire humanitarian situation, accusing the group of starving its own people and obstructing solutions. The ongoing conflict, which began with Hamas attacks in October 2023 and Israel's subsequent military campaign, has resulted in high casualties and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. U.S. mediation efforts have so far failed to produce a ceasefire, with Israel demanding Hamas' disarmament and Hamas seeking a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza as conditions for peace.