Vice President Harris Calls for Increased Aid to Gaza

AI

Summarized by AI

Mon Mar 04 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Vice President Kamala Harris has urged for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, highlighting the "inhumane" conditions and starvation faced by people in the region.

Speaking at the 59th anniversary commemoration of Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama, Harris said, "The Israeli government must do more to significantly increase the flow of aid. No excuses."

Her comments reflect the escalating push by the US to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Harris stated that "people in Gaza are starving" and that immediate steps must be taken.

The vice president cited reports of Palestinian families consuming leaves and animal feed, women giving birth to malnourished babies with limited medical care, and children dying from malnutrition and dehydration. She also called for a six-week ceasefire to allow for the delivery of aid and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Harris's visit to Selma also drew parallels between the ongoing civil rights movement and the current struggle for justice in Gaza. She emphasized that the fight for freedom remains unfinished in the face of efforts to restrict reproductive rights, voting rights, and gun safety measures.

**US and Jordan Airdrop Humanitarian Aid to Gaza**

Meanwhile, the US and Jordan have jointly airdropped humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The operation successfully delivered 38,000 meals to the besieged territory. Senior administration officials acknowledged the significance of the effort but stressed the need for further assistance.

**Hamas Delegation Arrives for Ceasefire Talks**

A Hamas delegation has arrived in Cairo, Egypt, for negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire. Israel has proposed an agreement, but has yet to send its own delegation to the talks. The deal would involve a six-week pause in fighting and the release of hostages.

If Hamas rejects the proposal, Israel has indicated that it will only participate in negotiations if Hamas provides a list of surviving hostages. Hamas has declined this request to date.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized his commitment to continuing the war until Hamas is eliminated from Gaza. However, the US has warned against any invasion of the final Hamas stronghold without measures to protect civilians.