US tells Israel any ground campaign in southern Gaza must limit further civilian displacement

The United States government has communicated to Israel the necessity of minimizing the displacement of Palestinian civilians in the southern region of Gaza, particularly in the event of reinitiating their ground operations against Hamas. This directive was issued by senior U.S. officials, who emphasized the need for Israel to adopt significantly more precise tactics in the south than previously used in the northern areas. These statements were made under the condition of anonymity as per the guidelines of the White House.

The U.S. is exerting increased pressure on Israel amidst the growing concerns over the Palestinian casualty figures, advocating for a more strategic approach in the anticipated military actions. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has acknowledged these concerns. Despite the ongoing temporary ceasefire, which included an exchange of hostages and prisoners between Israel and Hamas, the expectation is that military operations will resume. The ceasefire extension was agreed upon recently, allowing for continued prisoner and hostage exchanges.

President Joe Biden has expressed his preference for prolonging the ceasefire, which has facilitated the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Secretary of State Antony Blinken plans to revisit the Middle East to negotiate an extension of the truce and further releases of hostages. The U.S. administration supports Israel’s objective to dismantle Hamas’ influence in Gaza but stresses the importance of safeguarding Palestinian civilians. Hamas is known to operate within civilian areas, complicating Israel’s military strategy.

The conflict, which began on October 7, has resulted in over 13,300 Palestinian deaths, with a significant number being women and minors. The Israeli side has suffered more than 1,200 casualties, predominantly civilians, along with the deaths of 77 soldiers. The Biden administration, aware of the large Palestinian population in southern and central Gaza, has urged Israel to consider the strain on humanitarian resources that a large-scale displacement could cause.

The U.S. expects Israeli operations to avoid disrupting humanitarian aid, U.N. shelters, and essential infrastructure. The World Health Organization has raised concerns about a potential public health crisis and epidemics due to the displacement of Palestinians. The U.S. is focusing on providing medical supplies, including vaccines, and addressing water and sanitation needs to prevent disease outbreaks. The White House is also working to ensure the delivery of fuel to Gaza, overcoming initial Israeli reservations. The U.S. plans to send military humanitarian aid flights to northern Egypt, with the aid destined for Gaza’s civilian population through the United Nations.

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More about Gaza Conflict

• U.S.-Israel Diplomatic Efforts
• Gaza Ceasefire Developments
• Humanitarian Aid in Gaza
• Gaza Conflict Casualties
• U.S. Middle East Policy Review