"Biden Urged by Democratic Senators to Increase Gaza Aid Access"

More than a dozen Democratic senators, including Sen. Jeff Merkley, are urging President Joe Biden to press Israel to protect innocent civilians in Gaza and facilitate more humanitarian aid into the enclave. The senators called for urgent assistance for Palestinian civilians and encouraged the reopening of the Kerem Shalom border crossing to allow critical supplies to reach vulnerable civilians. They also expressed concern about the long-term effects of the conflict and called on Biden to develop a plan to end Hamas' influence in Gaza and work towards a two-state solution. The senators' letter comes as pressure mounts on the Biden administration to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza.