Israel allowed the highest number of aid trucks into Gaza since October 7, but the US says it's not enough to avert famine; Israeli Defense Minister did not indicate a date for a Rafah offensive in a call with the US; US is pressing Qatar for a quick answer from Hamas on a ceasefire and hostage release proposal; Health workers in Gaza exhumed the first bodies from mass graves at Al-Shifa Hospital; Ireland's new prime minister accuses Israel of starving and slaughtering Gazans and vows to play a part in bringing about a ceasefire and lasting peace. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says the US doesn't have evidence of genocide in Israel's war in Gaza and expects the humanitarian pier in Gaza to be ready by April 21.
Palestinian American doctor Thaer Ahmad walked out of a meeting with President Biden and other Arab and Muslim leaders, explaining that he did so out of respect for his community's mourning and to express the hurt and pain felt by the Palestinian American community. Ahmad, who had traveled to Gaza earlier this year, urged President Biden to prevent an invasion of Rafah, emphasizing the dire situation and the suffering of innocent people in Gaza. He also highlighted the need for urgent action to stop the looming Rafah invasion and shared his firsthand experiences of witnessing the impact of the conflict on civilians and healthcare workers in Gaza.
Vice President Kamala Harris warned of potential consequences for Israel's planned invasion of Rafah, drawing criticism on social media for what some saw as a betrayal of Israel and a misguided war strategy. Harris' comments came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to move forward with the invasion with or without U.S. support, citing the need to defeat Hamas. Social media users and commentators lambasted Harris for her remarks, with some accusing the administration of undermining Israel's efforts and prioritizing appeasement over the country's best interests.
