Sullivan: The U.S. is Asking Israel 'Difficult' Questions About Gaza Operations

Jake Sullivan, the White House National Security Advisor, confirmed on Sunday that there are differences between the United States and Israel regarding the military assault on Gaza, but stated that Washington speaks transparently with its ally. Sullivan told CBS host, "We are not in favor of the slaughter of innocent people, whether Palestinian, Israeli, or otherwise." Since the Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, the U.S. has faced increased criticism over Israel's actions. Israel is attacking Hamas positions in Gaza in response to the 'brutal' and surprise attacks by Hamas that left about 1,400 dead inside Israel. Before the Hamas fighters' attack, many in Israel believed that the group ruling Gaza might seek an agreement to improve the lives of the people in Gaza instead of hostility with Jerusalem. Reuters reports that Israeli forces are expanding ground operations in Gaza while their warplanes attacked hundreds of other Hamas targets on Sunday. The Israeli army stated on Sunday that it killed several more Hamas fighters. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the second phase of the war. About three weeks have passed since the war between Israel and Hamas began. Sullivan told CBS, "The United States and Israel are discussing difficult issues, humanitarian aid, distinguishing between terrorists and innocent civilians, and how Israel assesses its military operations." Sullivan stated, "We speak clearly, we speak directly, we share our views and we do so candidly and will continue to do so." He said the United States makes its 'principles' 'fully clear', 'including the sanctity of innocent human life' and shares its recommendations 'in private' with Israel. Officials in the Gaza Strip, controlled by Hamas, report that 8,005 Palestinians - including 3,324 children - have been killed in Israeli operations aimed at eliminating Iran-backed militants. The U.S., the European Union, and Japan have designated the Iran-backed militant group Hamas as a terrorist organization. Netanyahu regarding his controversial statements: I made a mistake and I apologize. Disconnection of humanitarian organizations from Gaza; WHO calls for an immediate ceasefire.