US vice president expresses ‘deep concern’ over Gaza in meeting with Israeli official

By Iclal Turan

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Vice President Kamala Harris met Monday Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz at the White House, during which she expressed "deep concern" over the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and discussed the urgency of achieving a hostage deal.

During the meeting, Harris urged Israel to "take additional measures" in cooperation with the US and its international partners to "increase the flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza and ensure its safe distribution to those in need."

"The Vice President expressed her deep concern about the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the recent horrific tragedy around an aid convoy in northern Gaza," said a White House readout of the meeting.

"The Vice President discussed the urgency of achieving a hostage deal and welcomed Israel’s constructive approach to the hostage talks," the statement said, adding Harris also called on the Palestinian group Hamas to accept terms on the table which would result in the release of hostages and an immediate six-week cease-fire as well as a surge of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza.

The situation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah was also discussed, with Harris raising the "need for a credible and implementable humanitarian plan" prior to any major military operation there, said the White House.

The meeting came after Harris criticized Israel for not doing enough to allow aid into Gaza and called for an immediate cease-fire.

"People in Gaza are starving. The conditions are inhumane. And our common humanity compels us to act,” she said.

Gantz flew to Washington for talks with top US officials, including Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.