U.S. Representatives Ami Bera and Andy Kim have put forward a resolution urging the secure, prompt, and ample delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip.
“Hamas’ horrific terrorist attack on October 7th has resulted in the tragic loss of life and the displacement of millions of civilians. I am deeply saddened when I hear from my constituents who have experienced the loss of loved ones in this conflict,” said Rep Bera.
“As a doctor, I know we must address the need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. That is why I am leading this resolution urging the Biden Administration and the international community to facilitate the prompt delivery of life-saving water, food, medicine, and fuel to humanitarian organizations in Gaza,” he added.
The resolution calls on the Biden Administration to play a facilitating role in several key aspects. This involves supporting the expansion of a secure and uninterrupted flow of aid convoys to reach civilians in Gaza with life-saving assistance. It emphasizes the need for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid in Gaza without hindrance or interference and advocates for the distribution of fuel to these organizations.
The resolution also underscores the importance of proper oversight to ensure the appropriate delivery of aid. Additionally, it urges the renewal of a humanitarian pause to facilitate an increase in humanitarian aid and the release of additional hostages.
The resolution highlights concerns raised by the World Health Organization, revealing that airstrikes and a scarcity of medical supplies, food, water, and fuel have further strained an already under-resourced health system. The dire situation has led to an alarming increase in cases of diarrhea, totaling more than 94,858, and acute respiratory infections, which have surpassed 129,230 according to the health agency.
As per the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), addressing the needs of 2,700,000 people in Gaza and the West Bank until the conclusion of 2023 would necessitate an estimated cost of $1,200,000,000.
Congressman Bera holds a senior position on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and is a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Representatives Bera and Kim have previously advocated for prompt action from Congressional leadership to approve President Biden's request for supplemental funding aimed at providing humanitarian aid in Gaza.
“More than two million people are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance,” and “over one million people have fled the violence, stretching the already strained ability of the United Nations and humanitarian partners on the ground to provide food, medical treatment, and shelter to those in need,” they said in a letter dated November 2.
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