President Joe Biden urged the Israeli military to prioritize saving civilian lives while conducting its campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Biden emphasized the importance of continuing efforts against Hamas but with increased caution to minimize harm to civilians. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is engaging in discussions with Israeli officials, pushing for more precision in operations and transitioning to a lower-intensity phase.
The visit comes amid a public disagreement between Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding civilian casualties and the future for Palestinians. Sullivan also addresses efforts to release American hostages held by Hamas. The discussions involve a shift from high-intensity to more targeted operations to reduce civilian casualties.
The Biden administration’s communication with Israel, expressing the U.S. desire for Israel to transition to a lower-intensity phase in its conflict with Hamas. The U.S. aims to minimize civilian casualties, anticipating a shift by January to a strategy targeting specific Hamas militants. The conversation involves discussions on potential timeframes and conditions for the transition. U.S. officials acknowledge Israel’s need to target Hamas leadership but emphasize the importance of protecting civilians. The talks involve ongoing exchanges between the U.S. and Israel.
The Netanyahu’s determination for total victory against Hamas, emphasizing continued fighting until Hamas is eliminated. Israel’s Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant, mentioned that the war in Gaza would last more than several months, expressing confidence in victory. Gallant thanked Sullivan for U.S. support, highlighting common interests and goals between the United States and Israel. The commitment to releasing hostages in Gaza was also emphasized in the meeting.
The United States and Israel about continuing the war until victory.Goals include eliminating Hamas, freeing hostages, reducing Hamas’ military capabilities, and ending its control in Gaza.The United States successfully advised Israel to change some of its initial plans for military deployment, particularly during Biden’s visit to Israel.Eight Americans are among the hostages held by Hamas since the October 7 attack.Israel’s response resulted in the deaths of more than 1,200 Israelis and foreigners and more than 18,000 Palestinians.Biden met with families of American hostages at the White House.Sullivan also visited Saudi Arabia and met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
