The administration of the United States has stated its position regarding Israel’s proposed expansion of military operations in the southern region of the Gaza Strip. This stance is conditional on Israel’s assurance of safeguarding Palestinian civilians in the area.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, John Kirby, the spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council, emphasized that the U.S. will not endorse Israel’s advancement into the southern Gaza Strip without a definitive strategy for protecting the civilian population there. Kirby highlighted the responsibility Israel has to incorporate civilian protection into their operational planning.
Further, Kirby pointed out that the demographic makeup of the southern part of the Gaza Strip, which is under the control of an organization deemed as terrorist, has changed. This change occurred as residents from the northern areas were instructed by Israel to relocate southward. Consequently, Kirby noted, it’s even more crucial for Israel to ensure the safety of these relocated civilians.
On October 13, Israel had directed roughly one million Palestinians in Gaza City to move towards the southern part of the Strip. This directive was issued as part of Israel’s intensified campaign against Hamas militants in northern Gaza. The Israeli military, in its communication to the civilians, emphasized that the evacuation was a measure for their own protection.
Kirby acknowledged Israel’s establishment of secure corridors in the north, enabling civilians to evacuate from the conflict zones in northern Gaza. However, the evacuation process was reportedly hindered by Hamas, who allegedly used civilians as shields, expecting Israel to be blamed for any civilian casualties.
A significant development occurred on November 13, a month after the evacuation order, when Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced that Hamas had lost its grip over the Gaza Strip. Following a brief ceasefire, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are expected to move south in Gaza. This strategy is likely in response to a previous incident on October 7, where Hamas captured approximately 240 hostages during an incursion into southern Israel.
