US Defense Secretary Urges Israel to De-escalate Gaza Operations
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin arrived in Israel on Monday with the primary aim of urging the Israeli government to reduce its combat operations in Gaza. The visit comes amid increasing international pressure, including from France, the UK, and Germany, for a cease-fire in the region. Israeli protesters are also calling for renewed talks with Hamas for the release of hostages.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains firm in his stance, insisting that Israel will continue its offensive until Hamas is dethroned, its military capabilities are diminished, and hostages are freed. The conflict, which began on October 7 following a mass Hamas terrorist attack on Israeli civilians, has led to significant casualties and devastation, particularly in northern Gaza.
The US, while vetoing cease-fire calls at the UN, has expedited munitions supply to Israel but is simultaneously pressing for more careful measures to prevent civilian casualties.
In response to US pressure, Israel has enhanced the precision of its evacuation instructions and reopened its main cargo crossing with Gaza to allow more aid, albeit insufficient compared to prewar levels. Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of deliberately depriving Gaza’s population of essential resources, a claim the Israeli military has yet to respond to.
As the conflict intensifies, the toll on civilians, particularly in Gaza, continues to rise. Israeli and Palestinian casualties mount, and international concern grows over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
