U.S. / Israel News Wrap

US Signs $95 Billion in War Aid to Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan

United States President Joe Biden signed a $95 billion war aid measure Wednesday, including assistance for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, with a specific part allocated to targeting the social media platform TikTok. Within this aid package, $17 billion has been assigned to support Israel, $9 billion goes to humanitarian relief in Gaza, and an additional $8 billion is meant to counter Chinese threats in Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific region. 

Biden says the aid reinforces Israel’s defenses against recent attacks by Iran, and is meant to prevent widespread destruction. He reiterated his unwavering commitment to Israel’s security while emphasizing the urgency of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza without delay.

Biden also stressed the need to ensure that aid actually reaches the people of Gaza who are suffering due to the ongoing conflict initiated by Hamas. The $9 billion aid package for the Palestinians includes $1 billion specifically earmarked for additional humanitarian assistance in Gaza, including vital supplies like food, medical resources, and clean water. Biden says his every action is aimed at securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, achieving a ceasefire, and laying the groundwork for lasting peace in the region. There are still 133 hostages in Gaza of many different nationalities, including American citizens. 

Regarding TikTok, the provision gives its parent company nine months to sell the platform to Americans or face a ban in the United States. This move reflects concerns about national security and foreign influence, with TikTok signaling its intent to challenge the measure through legal means.

Biden Assigns new Special Envoy

President Biden has appointed Lise Grande as the new Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues. She replaces Ambassador David Satterfield. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced it Thursday morning. The envoy role was established in response to Hamas’ attacks in October, aimed at pushing through humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Grande, with almost three decades of experience in overseeing complex operations for the UN, recently served as President and CEO of the US Institute of Peace. Her background includes leading UN humanitarian efforts in Yemen and coordinating stabilization operations in Iraq during the fight against ISIS. 

As Special Envoy, Grande will collaborate with USAID, government colleagues, regional partners, and Israel to facilitate this mission.

US and 17 Other Nations Call on Hamas to Release Hostages

The US, along with leaders from 17 other countries, has released a joint statement urging Hamas to release all hostages, emphasizing that the hostages include their own American citizens as well. The statement highlights a deal on the table for a ceasefire in Gaza, which Hamas has rejected. Despite allegations, the US denies preventing the deal and confirms Israel’s agreement. 

Parents of hostages say they’re hopeful about the statement’s potential impact. The ‘Hostages and Families Forum’ welcomes the statement, stressing the urgent need for the hostages’ release and a lasting ceasefire in Gaza.