The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has taken a new turn as the Biden administration emphasizes the need for Israel to protect innocent civilians in Gaza. Despite Hamas using civilians as human shields, the White House national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, asserted that Israel should bear the responsibility of distinguishing terrorists from civilians during its military operations. Sullivan made these remarks during an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union.”
According to Sullivan, Hamas’s tactic of using civilians as human shields and locating rocket and terrorist infrastructure among them places an additional burden on Israel. Nevertheless, he stressed that Israel must adhere to international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of innocent lives. Sullivan emphasized that the majority of the people in Gaza are innocent civilians who deserve to be safeguarded.
President Biden is set to have a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the issue further. However, Sullivan revealed that the United States has already been engaging in private discussions with Israel about the importance of targeting terrorists and avoiding harm to innocent civilians in military operations.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu announced the commencement of the “second stage” of the war with Hamas, leading to an expansion of ground operations in Gaza. The conflict, which began with Hamas terrorists infiltrating Israel on October 7, has resulted in a staggering death toll of approximately 8,700 people on both sides. Among the casualties are at least 1,400 Israeli civilians and soldiers, as well as 33 Americans. However, the figures provided by the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry have been met with skepticism by the Biden administration.
Concerns have also been raised about the fate of 229 individuals currently held captive by Hamas, with fears that at least 10 Americans may be among them. The situation remains fluid, and updates on the conflict can be accessed through various news sources.
As the conflict continues, the Biden administration remains committed to urging Israel to prioritize the protection of innocent Palestinians in Gaza. The international community closely watches as efforts are made to distinguish between terrorists and civilians, with the hope of minimizing the loss of innocent lives.
