In a press conference on Thursday, November 16, the US State Department spokesperson defended the Biden administration's position regarding civilian casualties in Israeli attacks, stating that even in the past 24 hours, communications have been made on this matter, reminding that Washington expects Israel to act in accordance with international law. Israel claims its military operations are expanding further. IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi stated in a statement that they are close to dismantling Hamas's military capabilities in Gaza. The Israeli army reported that during operations on Wednesday, they entered a hospital and found several weapons and other items indicating Hamas's presence there. On Thursday, they announced the discovery of an entrance to a Hamas tunnel and a vehicle containing weapons in the Shifa hospital compound. The US State Department spokesperson described Gaza City as a 'battlefield' and stated that there should be no civilians in that area, working with the Israeli government and international organizations to find ways to evacuate them. According to Miller, the Biden administration aims to create safe places for civilians and patients, engaging in daily discussions with Israeli officials and military personnel. At the same time, Miller holds Hamas responsible for civilian deaths, stating, 'It is Hamas that uses hospitals, schools, mosques, and other civilian structures.' One of the latest polls conducted by NPR, PBS, and Marist shows that Americans increasingly believe Israel has overreacted in response to Hamas's October 7 attack and that it is time for a ceasefire. The US State Department spokesperson emphasized that civilian casualties are very high, but the Biden administration does not base its position on polls; rather, it is American national interests that determine their stance. Miller described the civilian casualties among Palestinians as a disaster but stated that the responsibility lies with Hamas, which initiated the conflict.
US Emphasizes Protection of Civilians; Washington Expects Israel to Act According to International Law
The US State Department has reiterated its expectation for Israel to adhere to international law regarding civilian protection amid ongoing military operations in Gaza. The Biden administration is engaged in discussions to ensure safe zones for civilians while holding Hamas accountable for the conflict's escalation. This situation highlights the delicate balance the US seeks to maintain in its foreign policy amidst rising public concern over civilian casualties.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The US State Department reiterated its expectation for Israel to protect civilians during military operations in Gaza while holding Hamas accountable for civilian casualties. The IDF reported expanding operations against Hamas, including discoveries of weapons in hospitals.
- The US is working to establish safe zones for civilians in Gaza.
- Public opinion in the US is shifting towards concerns over Israel's military response.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been ongoing for decades, with recent escalations leading to significant military actions and civilian casualties. The role of external powers, particularly the US and Iran, is critical in shaping the conflict's dynamics.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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