Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken addressed the "Call for Action: Urgent Humanitarian Response for Gaza" conference, expressing gratitude to King Abdullah, President El-Sisi, and Secretary-General Guterres for organizing the event. He emphasized the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting that over a million people have been displaced from Rafah alone in the past month.
"Ninety-five percent of people there cannot access clean drinking water," Blinken stated. He also noted that most of Gaza's sanitation system is destroyed and fewer than a dozen hospitals remain operational.
Blinken mentioned Jamal abu Kwaik, a UNRWA staffer who was killed after evacuating Rafah while seeking shelter for his family. "He’s survived by his wife and his four children," Blinken said.
The Secretary underscored the need for an immediate ceasefire as proposed by President Biden eleven days ago. The proposal includes a full ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, release of hostages, increased aid deliveries, and negotiations towards a permanent ceasefire.
Blinken reported meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu in Israel, who reaffirmed support for the proposal. The United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution sponsored by the United States backing this plan with no opposition.
"Hamas stands in the way of this deal happening," Blinken asserted. He urged governments and organizations to press Hamas to accept the deal.
Blinken called on countries to increase aid contributions as only one-third of the current United Nations appeal is funded. He announced an additional $404 million in U.S. aid to Palestinians.
The Secretary stressed ensuring aid reaches those most in need within Gaza through various means such as land, air, and sea routes. He highlighted Israel's steps to facilitate aid delivery but urged further actions to reduce civilian casualties and improve humanitarian access.
Blinken shared stories of children affected by the conflict like Abed, Fadi, and Dunya to emphasize their humanity and suffering. "We all have to recommit to doing our part," he concluded.