At least four American citizens have been confirmed killed in the ongoing violence, according to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
The White House swiftly reaffirmed strong US support for Israel following Saturday’s unexpected attack from the Gaza Strip. They pledged unwavering backing and cautioned other parties to stay out of the conflict.
On Sunday, President Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and assured that additional assistance for the Israeli Defense Forces is en route, with more to follow in the coming days. They also discussed efforts to prevent any opportunistic actions by Israel’s adversaries amid the current situation.
President Biden expressed full support for the Government and people of Israel in the face of an unprecedented attack by Hamas terrorists.
Hamas later accused the United States, a major arms supplier to Israel, of actively participating in the aggression by moving the aircraft carrier.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict’s most severe escalation in decades has resulted in over 700 Israeli casualties, according to the military, while Gaza officials reported at least 400 deaths in Israeli airstrikes.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has prepared his nation for what he terms a lengthy war, with tens of thousands of Israeli forces already mobilized to confront Hamas and prepare for a potential ground offensive in Gaza.
‘Ironclad Support’
The situation has raised concerns about a broader regional conflict, with Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah claiming to have launched shells and missiles at Israeli positions.
In response to escalating tensions, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the deployment of forces to enhance regional deterrence efforts, following discussions with President Biden. This deployment includes the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier, a guided missile cruiser, and four guided missile destroyers, with additional equipment and munitions rapidly provided to the Israel Defense Forces.
The movement of US ships and aircraft, along with aid to Israel, underscores the United States’ unwavering support for the Israel Defense Forces and the Israeli people.
On Sunday afternoon, the United States led calls for condemnation of the Hamas assault on Israel at the United Nations Security Council.
“I expect strong condemnation of these heinous acts of terrorism against the Israeli people and their government from the other Council members,” said senior US diplomat Robert Wood.
‘World Should Be Revolted’
A US National Security Council spokesperson confirmed the deaths of several Americans on Sunday evening, though no further details were provided.
Following a Senate briefing with senior national security and State Department officials, Majority Leader Schumer stated, “The Administration informed us of four confirmed deaths so far, but regrettably, we anticipate the toll will rise.”
Secretary of State Antony Blinken earlier suggested that Americans may have been taken hostage in the attacks, emphasizing that this is a massive terrorist assault targeting Israeli civilians in their towns and homes.
State and local authorities across the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Houston, announced increased security measures at US synagogues in the coming days, even in the absence of specific threats.”
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