Jessica Yellin Instagram – BIDEN TO NETANYAHU: “IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE” After 6 months of providing unconditioned support and weapons to Israel in its war in Gaza, today President Biden warned Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu that he should instruct negotiators to do what it takes to reach a deal for an immediate ceasefire. And if not, there will be a change in US policy. This is a dramatic shift in the White House’s tone and signals a change in the president’s approach to the US’s role in the war in Gaza. White House National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said the president also insisted Israel must act immediately to open more crossings and ensure a “dramatic increase” in humanitarian aid entering Gaza to feed the civilian population. Kirby said the US wants a better “deconfliction process” (i.e., the way Israel coordinates with humanitarian aid workers to ensure their safety). In addition, he stipulated that Israel must take “specific, concrete, and measurable steps” to ensure the safety of civilians and aid workers. Kirby indicated the US expects Israel to announce policy changes “in the coming hours and days.” Kirby says Biden warned that if Israel doesn’t comply, “the president will have to reconsider his policy with regard to Gaza.” Though Kirby wouldn’t offer specifics, the implication is that the US would withdraw or adjust allocation of some aid. Kirby later specified that the president is calling for a temporary ceasefire.