US Prez Biden Dials Israeli PM Netanyahu, Both Leaders Agree On Aid Flow Into Gaza

According to the White House, Biden welcomed the first two convoys of humanitarian assistance, and the leaders affirmed that there will now be a continued flow of this critical assistance into Gaza.

United States President Joe Biden.

United States President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss developments in Gaza and the surrounding region. According to the White House, Joe Biden welcomed the first two convoys of humanitarian assistance, and the two leaders affirmed that there will now be a continued flow of this critical assistance into Gaza.

In a statement, the White House said that Biden expressed appreciation for Israel's support in helping to accommodate the release of two American hostages. The two leaders also affirmed that there will now be a continued flow of this critical assistance into Gaza.

US President Joe Biden spoke with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss developments in Gaza and the surrounding region: White House pic.twitter.com/B3ZBOpGKHU

— ANI (@ANI) October 22, 2023

“The President welcomed the first two convoys of humanitarian assistance since Hamas's October 7 terrorist attack, which crossed the border into Gaza and is being distributed to Palestinians in need. The leaders affirmed that there will now be continued flow of this critical assistance into Gaza. The President expressed appreciation for Israel's support in helping to accommodate the release of two American hostages,” The White House statement said.

“The leaders discussed ongoing efforts to secure the release of all the remaining hostages taken by Hamas - including U.S. citizens - and to provide for safe passage for U.S. citizens and other civilians in Gaza who wish to depart.
The President and the Prime Minister agreed to stay in close touch,” the statement further stated.

Meanwhile, leaders of the US, the UK, France, Canada and Italy extended support to Israel's right to defend itself against the Palestinian militant group Hamas but urged the Jewish state to uphold international humanitarian laws and protect civilians.

On Sunday, a joint statement was issued by the White House after Joe Biden initiated a call with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, President Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of the UK.

“The leaders reiterated their support for Israel and its right to defend itself against terrorism and called for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians,” the joint statement said.