President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke this morning with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel. The President reaffirmed the United States' support for Israel's right to defend itself and obligation to protect its citizens, while underscoring the importance of operating consistent with the law of war to include the protection of civilians in Gaza caught in the conflict launched by Hamas. The President and Prime Minister discussed follow-up from the President's visit to Israel earlier this week, including plans to begin moving humanitarian assistance into Gaza from Egypt.
The leaders discussed ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas - including U.S. citizens -and to provide for safe passage for U.S. citizens and other civilians in Gaza.
