UNITED STATES: Some U.S. citizens have lost their lives since the beginning of Hamas’ surprising attack on Israel on Saturday, a spokesperson for the National Security Council stated on Sunday, adding that American authorities continued to communicate with their Israeli counterparts.
Official reports of American casualties in the fighting surfaced as Israel launched attacks on the Palestinian enclave of Gaza in retaliation for one of the worst incursions in its history.
Early on Sunday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the United States was “working overtime” to verify reports regarding missing and deceased American citizens following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel.
Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer said on Sunday that there are American citizens among the “scores” of hostages currently being held in Gaza.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Jerusalem has updated its contingency plans “for any potential evacuation by land or air,” as per the memo. On Saturday, the embassy issued a “shelter in place” directive for its personnel.
The surprising large-scale attack launched by Gaza militants on Saturday has resulted in the loss of hundreds of Israeli lives. This has led to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing retaliation and a series of deadly Israeli airstrikes in response.
It’s uncertain what Israel’s complete response will look like. A spokesperson for the Israeli military stated that Israel might consider regaining full control of Gaza, a move not seen since 2005, and over 20 communities near Gaza are currently undergoing evacuations.
Speaking on Saturday from the White House, President Joe Biden stated that his administration’s support for Israel’s security is “rock solid and unwavering.”
In a Sunday talk with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden said that aid was “on its way,” with additional assistance forthcoming.
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