Gilbert, the spokesperson for the US State Department, held a press conference this week to stress the importance of Israeli non-interference in providing humanitarian assistance to Gaza. He emphasized that this assistance should consist of essential supplies and not weapons. In doing so, Gilbert aimed to approach his mission diplomatically, in line with the statement made by the US President Joe Biden’s administration regarding Israel. Gilbert is an experienced expert who has worked in several government departments and has contributed to a report on this issue.

During an interview, Gilbert expressed his opinion on the matter, stating that there are clear distinctions between right and wrong, and that the findings in the report highlight what is wrong. The United Nations and other humanitarian organizations have long warned about the risks involved in aiding and abetting in the Gaza Strip. Earlier this month, Gilbert received a 46-page unclassified report from the State Department, which called for the publication of a national security memorandum to secure the national security interests of the Biden administration. Other reports indicate that Israel has not been fully cooperative in delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip since October 7. However, it is important to note that this does not violate US law, which prohibits the sale of weapons to countries that restrict American humanitarian assistance.

Upon the publication of the report, Gilbert informed his superiors that it was a diplomatic action. His last day of work was Wednesday. A State Department spokesperson, Viktor Patela, declined to discuss the specifics of classified questions, but acknowledged that the administration welcomes diverse perspectives. He stated that the administration supports the report and continues to emphasize the importance of supporting access to humanitarian assistance from the Israeli government and expanding its availability in the Gaza Strip. Patela also made it clear that the State Department is not a punitive agency and that their disagreements stem from genuine concerns.