Israel is not Hamas. Israel is a democracy.
Hamas a terrorist organization.
And democracies place the highest value on human life.
Every human life.
As has been said, whoever saves the life saves the
entire world.
That's our strength. It's what distinguishes us from terrorists like
Hamas.
If we lose that reverence for human life.
We risk becoming indistinguishable from those we confront.
Here's the current reality in Gaza.
Despite important steps that Israel has taken to allow assistance
into Gaza.
The results on the ground?
Are woefully insufficient.
And unacceptable.
100% of the population in Gaza knows acute levels of
food insecurity.
100% of the population is in need of humanitarian assistance,
and those working heroically to provide that assistance are doing
so in great peril to their own lives.
This week's horrific attack on the World Central Kitchen was
not the first such incident.
It must be the last.
President Biden spoke a short while ago with Prime Minister
Netanyahu.
The leaders discussed the situation in Gaza.
The President emphasized that the strikes on humanitarian workers and
the overall humanitarian situation are unacceptable.
He made clear the need for Israel to announce a
series of specific,
concrete and measurable steps to address civilian harm,
humanitarian suffering and the safety of aid workers.
He made clear that U.S.
policy with respect to Gaza will be determined by our
assessment of Israel's immediate action on these steps.
He underscored as well that an immediate ceasefire is essential
to stabilize and improve the humanitarian situation and protect innocent
civilians,
And he urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to empower his negotiators
to conclude a deal without delay to bring the hostages
home.
The two leaders also discussed public Iranian threats against Israel
and the Israeli people.
President Biden reaffirmed the United States strong support for Israel
in the face of these threats and our commitment to
Israel's security.
Right now, there is no higher priority in Gaza than
protecting civilians.
Surging humanitarian assistance and ensuring the security of those who
provide it.
Israel must meet this moment.