On Sunday morning, President Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s Prime Minister spoke over the phone. The two discussed the ongoing airstrikes on Gaza.
According to the White House, Biden reaffirmed Israel’s right to self-defense but warned it to do so in an ethical manner.
In a press release, the White House said that “the President reiterated Israel’s right and responsibilities to protect its citizens from terrorism and stressed that it is important to do so in a manner that is consistent with international human rights laws and prioritizes civil protection.”
The President and the Prime Minister discussed ongoing efforts to locate and release hostages. Hamas could still be holding American citizens.
In the statement, it was also stated that “the President emphasized the need for an immediate and significant increase in the flow humanitarian aid to meet civilian needs of Gaza.” “The statement also stated that “the Prime Minister and President agreed to continue regular consultative meetings both directly and through their respective national security teams. ”
Hamas’ Gaza Health Ministry reported that at least 8,005 Palestinians have been killed since October 7. More than 3,000 of these are children, and more than 2,000 are women.