National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan addressed questions regarding the recent mission in Gaza, where two hospitals reported at least 236 casualties during an Israeli operation to rescue hostages. The exact number of Palestinian civilian casualties is currently uncertain, with conflicting reports from the Israeli Defense Forces and the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. However, it is confirmed that innocent individuals lost their lives during the operation, which is deemed tragic and heartbreaking.
President Biden has acknowledged the dire situation faced by the Palestinian people due to the conflict, attributing much of the suffering to Hamas' tactics of using civilian areas for military purposes. The presence of hostages and military installations in densely populated regions has resulted in the loss of innocent lives, a situation that is deeply lamented by the United States and the global community.
The call for an immediate ceasefire and a resolution to the hostage crisis is emphasized as the only viable solution to prevent further civilian casualties. Ending military operations, securing the safe return of hostages, and creating a pathway for a more promising future for the Palestinian people are highlighted as crucial steps towards achieving peace and stability in the region.
