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The United States ​has expressed⁤ serious ⁢concern about civilian casualties in⁣ the Gaza ‌Strip following an⁣ Israeli airstrike on ⁤the city of Beit Lahiya.

US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, speaking at a press conference, noted that the ‌incident that occurred in the morning caused a stir in the international‌ community, and Washington had already asked Israel‌ to explain the reasons for⁢ the massive attack with high casualties.

Miller clarified that, according to ⁣preliminary data, about twenty children died as a result of the attack,⁢ among whom there could be those who had been ⁤trying to hide from the‌ consequences of hostilities for ​a long time. The State⁢ Department stressed that the situation requires a thorough investigation, and at this time there have ‍been no explanations from the Israeli side.

The⁣ Israel Defense Forces confirmed that​ it was aware of the death of approximately 100 people after the Beit Lahia airstrike ‌and said it​ was⁣ investigating the matter. However, in their statement, IDF representatives drew ⁢attention to ⁣the⁣ fact that the data on the number‌ of victims provided​ by Hamas terrorists may be​ inaccurate.

Separately, Miller indicated that the ‍United States recognizes Israel’s successes‌ in the fight against Hamas terrorists. According to the State Department,‌ over the past year the IDF has​ been able to significantly weaken the group’s leadership and combat⁤ capabilities, eliminating‌ the possibility of a repeat of ‍attacks like the one ‌carried out on October 7.

At the same​ time, he noted that civilians in Gaza‌ are suffering‌ heavy ⁢losses during ‍these⁣ military operations.

Miller stressed that the United⁣ States believes it ‍is important to ‍complete the operation in such a way that the hostages are returned and security is restored, rather than allowing the‌ conflict ⁣to drag on.

Washington is not pushing for Israel to leave Gaza, leaving ​a power vacuum that could once again allow ‍Hamas to take control of the strip, a State Department official said.

Earlier, Cursor wrote that the​ IDF commented on the information disseminated by Hamas terrorists about ​the victims of the attack on the⁤ Gaza Strip.

Interview between Time.news Editor and‍ Middle East Conflict Expert Dr. Sarah Al-Mansouri

Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Al-Mansouri. Thank you for joining us⁤ today to discuss the recent tragic events in the Gaza Strip.

Dr. ⁤Al-Mansouri: Thank you‍ for having me. It’s ‍a vital topic, and the situation is unfortunately dire.

Editor: Yes, the recent ⁤Israeli airstrike in Beit Lahiya has drawn significant international concern, particularly from the ​United States. The reported casualties, including around twenty children, are heart-wrenching. What’s your perspective ⁣on the impact of such events on civilian⁤ safety in conflict ⁣zones?

Dr. Al-Mansouri: Civilian‍ safety in conflict zones is always at risk, but events like this highlight a deepening crisis. Airstrikes like the one we saw often lead to catastrophic consequences for non-combatants, especially in densely populated ⁢areas such as Gaza, where escape routes and ⁢shelters are limited.

Editor: The U.S. State Department has already sought explanations from Israel regarding the attack. What might this indicate about the ‍broader implications for U.S.-Israel​ relations?

Dr. Al-Mansouri: ‍It’s a complex situation. While the U.S. has traditionally stood by Israel, increasing casualties among civilians, especially children, might push Washington to re-evaluate its unconditional support. Public opinion is increasingly sensitive ​to humanitarian issues, which can lead to significant political⁢ ramifications.

Editor: Matthew Miller emphasized the stir this incident has ⁢caused in the international community. ⁢How do you see such reactions shaping international policies regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Dr.‍ Al-Mansouri: International reactions can be crucial. A unified voice calling for restraint and accountability can pressure Israel and also encourage other nations to play a more proactive role in seeking a peaceful resolution. If the international community continues to⁣ amplify its concerns, it could lead ⁣to ⁤diplomatic initiatives aimed at de-escalation.

Editor: It appears that many of the victims were trying to shelter⁢ from‌ ongoing hostilities. What⁣ does that say about the realities for civilians in military operations?

Dr. Al-Mansouri: It underscores the tragic irony of⁢ war—those seeking safety are often the most ‍vulnerable. The psychological impact of living under constant threat⁣ is immense and affects generations. Civilians are not just caught in the crossfire; they are living with the trauma that ensues​ long after the strikes are over.

Editor: ​Moving forward, what measures could be implemented by the international community to better protect civilians in such active ⁣conflict zones?

Dr. Al-Mansouri: There are several avenues. First, pushing for stronger international humanitarian laws and greater accountability for violations could deter future attacks on civilians. Also, increasing the presence ‌and capacity of organizations dedicated to monitoring and assisting civilians during conflicts can provide immediate assistance and long-term support. Lastly, promoting dialogue and negotiation over military solutions is essential ‌for sustainable peace.

Editor: These tragic events undoubtedly remind us of the urgent need for diplomatic solutions. Thank you, Dr. Al-Mansouri, for​ shedding light ​on such a critical issue today.

Dr. Al-Mansouri: Thank ⁤you⁤ for having me. It’s important that we continue to have these conversations and ⁣advocate for those caught in the crossfire.