[WASHINGTON D.C., August 19, 2024] – As the U.S.-supported genocide in Gaza nears its one-year mark, it has become increasingly clear that the current approach of the Biden Administration cannot secure a true and lasting ceasefire. Despite repeated announcements of ceasefire agreements by President Biden and Secretary of State Blinken in the past, these efforts have consistently been sabotaged by Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has exploited each occasion to undermine the standing of the United States on the global stage, increase its complicity in Israel’s genocide, and undo any chances at peace. Meanwhile, after each and every embarrassment, the Biden Administration has approved more weapons and more aid to Israel.
Today, despite Secretary Blinken’s announcement that Israel has agreed to a new ceasefire and a hostage release proposal in Gaza, there is still no guarantee that the ceasefire will be accepted by the extremist right-wing Israeli government or even last. Moreover, there continues to remain a significant lack of accountability and transparency in the Netanyahu administration’s actions. The pattern is clear: announce a ceasefire, then watch it crumble under the weight of Israeli resistance led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, then give more weapons to continue their genocide.
Americans for Justice in Palestine Action (AJP Action) and a large percentage of Americans demand an immediate shift in U.S. foreign policy: no more military aid, no more diplomatic impunity, no more appeasement, and no more unilateral support for Israel’s actions. The President cannot change Netanyahu’s behavior by continuing to give him what he wants after scuttling the ceasefires Blinken and Biden claim to have secured. We urge President Biden to recognize that lasting peace cannot be achieved through repeated failures and unenforced agreements. We call on Biden to salvage what is left of his presidential legacy and do whatever it takes to correct course and end this genocide of Palestinians that will define him forever. It’s time for President Biden and Secretary Blinken to truthfully adopt an approach that prioritizes human rights and justice for all.
