WASHINGTON— Seven prominent US unions have collectively called on President Joe Biden to end military support to Israel amid ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. This demand, aimed at stopping the loss of civilian lives, was expressed in a detailed letter to the American leader, urging a decisive shift in US foreign policy regarding the conflict.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the union leaders assert that discontinuing U.S. military assistance is the most effective and immediate method to end the ongoing war. They highlight the severe consequences of the conflict, including widespread famine, massive displacements, and the destruction of critical infrastructure such as schools and hospitals in the Gaza Strip.

The unions pointed out the failure of both Israel and the radical Palestinian movement Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposed by the Biden administration in May. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his administration have publicly rejected key elements of this ceasefire plan, complicating efforts to deescalate the situation.

The ongoing violence escalated significantly after Hamas militants infiltrated Israel from Gaza on October 7, 2023, leading to civilian casualties and the taking of hostages. Israel responded with a comprehensive blockade and military strikes in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, followed by a ground operation in Gaza. This military response has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties, with a notable majority being women and children.

On May 31, President Biden introduced a draft peace agreement, proposing a comprehensive ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from civilian areas in Gaza, and a prisoner exchange involving the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Despite initial support from Netanyahu, he maintained that military pressure on Hamas was necessary to secure the release of hostages and facilitate peace negotiations.