U.S. Senators urge Netanyahu to immediately change course in Gaza War
The senators described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as 'horrific and unacceptable,' citing warnings from over 100 humanitarian organizations, including Mercy Corps, Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children, and Oxfam, about a growing risk of widespread famine.
According to the statement, three-quarters of Gaza's population are facing emergency or catastrophic levels of hunger due to the ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid by Netanyahu's government for nearly three months. The limited distribution points of the so-called 'Gaza Humanitarian Foundation' are insufficient, leading to disorganized aid delivery and an estimated 700 deaths.
The senators criticized the Trump administration's recent allocation of $30 million to the foundation, bypassing standard procedures and congressional consultation, and disregarding established humanitarian organizations with proven expertise.
They highlighted that around 88% of Gaza is now inaccessible to civilians, with nearly two million people confined to a dangerously small area. They warned that the war's continuation without a clear "day after" plan is a strategic error and not in Israel's national security interest.
The senators called on the Trump administration to press Netanyahu's government for an immediate ceasefire agreement, the release of hostages, and a large-scale increase in humanitarian aid with reliable delivery mechanisms, including oversight and verification to prevent aid diversion.
They also demanded that trusted organizations like the World Food Program be allowed to operate fully, and that UN-led aid coordination mechanisms be reinstated. They urged the administration to either overhaul or shut down the Gaza Humanitarian Fund and ensure greater accountability.
Finally, the senators stressed the importance of establishing a viable framework for returning to a two-state solution, allowing Palestinians and Israelis to live side by side in peace, dignity, and prosperity.
Signatories:
Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Armed Services Committee
Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), Judiciary Committee
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Foreign Relations Committee
Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), Vice Chair of the Intelligence Committee
Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), Top Appropriator for Defense
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