US President Joe Biden urged Israel to prioritize civilian lives in its Gaza campaign against Hamas.
Biden’s Adviser Urges Less Intense Operations in Gaza
Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, is meeting with Israeli officials amid tensions and a public breach with Netanyahu. Sullivan recommends targeting high-intensity operations.
Israel should reduce civilian casualties by reducing intensity within weeks, maybe by the end of the year, according to the US.
The southern Gaza ground incursion is expected to extend several weeks before being hyper-localized to target Hamas militants. Hamas holds eight American captives, which Sullivan is negotiating to release. Netanyahu wants to defeat Hamas, while Sullivan wants to reduce operations.
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US-Israel Talks: Defense Minister Thanks US for Support in Gaza Conflict, Potential for Months-Long Operation
Yoav Gallant, Israel’s defense minister, thanks the US for supporting the current Gaza conflict, which could last months. US and Israel hold back-and-forth negotiations with detailed timeline briefs. American counsel shaped Israel’s early military planning.
Following Biden’s appeal for Israel to be more cautious in its Hamas operations to safeguard civilians, Sullivan visited. The phases of the conflict, common goals, and captive release are discussed. The US administration balances assistance for Israel with civilian safety and emphasizes the relevance of ground conditions in selecting the timing of a lower-intensity strategy.