U.S. Representatives Ami Bera and Andy Kim have proposed a resolution urging the swift, secure, and ample delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip. The resolution, led by Rep Bera, addresses the aftermath of a terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7th, resulting in tragic loss of life and the displacement of millions. It calls on the Biden Administration to facilitate the secure flow of aid convoys, ensure unimpeded delivery by humanitarian organizations, and distribute fuel to support their operations. The resolution also emphasizes oversight to guarantee proper aid delivery and advocates for a humanitarian pause to increase aid and release hostages.
Highlighting concerns raised by the World Health Organization, the resolution notes the strain on Gaza’s health system due to airstrikes, scarcity of medical supplies, food, water, and fuel. The dire situation has led to a significant increase in cases of diarrhea and acute respiratory infections. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates that addressing the needs of 2,700,000 people in Gaza and the West Bank until the end of 2023 would require $1,200,000,000.
Congressman Bera, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep Kim have consistently advocated for prompt Congressional action to approve President Biden’s request for supplemental funding for humanitarian aid in Gaza. They emphasize the urgent need for assistance, given that more than two million people require lifesaving humanitarian aid, and over one million have fled the violence, straining the ability of UN and humanitarian partners to provide essential support.
