For the first time, Washington acknowledges the casualty toll of the Israeli war on Gaza. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated on Thursday that Israel has killed over 25,000 women and children since October 7th, emphasizing that Israel can and must do more to protect civilians.
During a congressional hearing, when asked about the number of Palestinian women and children killed by Israel, Austin responded, “Over 25,000.”
Austin also mentioned that approximately 21,000 precision-guided munitions have been sent to Israel since the onset of its war on Gaza.
Austin’s figures are close to those reported and come as Washington pushes for a ceasefire and a reduction in civilian casualties in Gaza.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas by Monday, a deadline he had previously anticipated earlier this week.
Responding to journalists’ questions on Thursday about his expectations, Biden stated, “Hope springs eternal,” noting that he had spoken to regional leaders about a ceasefire, adding, “But it’s unlikely to happen by Monday.”
“Conflicting Narratives”
Biden also confirmed on Thursday that the US is verifying “the conflicting narratives” regarding a shooting incident at a Gaza aid distribution point, adding that the event could complicate ceasefire negotiations.
