Washington, DC – In response to Senator Ron Wyden’s introduction of the Accountability for Withholding Aid and Relief Essentials (AWARE) Act, which would impose targeted sanctions on government officials who obstruct humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza and other conflict zones, J Street Vice President of Government Affairs Hannah Morris issued the following statement:
“J Street welcomes Senator Wyden’s introduction of the AWARE Act, which would hold accountable those who continue to obstruct the flow of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza who so desperately need it.
While some humanitarian aid is entering Gaza, the Netanyahu government’s continued restrictions – including basic necessities like school supplies and shelter – violate US and international law, while contradicting our most basic Jewish values. These restrictions also undermine Gaza’s stability and further damage Israel’s global standing – both of which harm Israel’s national interest, and contradict the vision of a principled, democratic Israel that we believe in.
By authorizing targeted sanctions on government officials who restrict humanitarian assistance, the AWARE Act provides an urgently needed tool to get the Israeli government to change course. With Israel set to bar dozens of international NGOs from providing life-saving services inside Gaza, this bill sends a clear message that government officials will no longer be allowed to inhibit the flow of aid with impunity.
We commend Senator Wyden’s leadership on this issue and urge his colleagues to support this legislation.”