US Urges Israel to Reduce Intensity of Gaza War, Focus on Civilian Safety

The United States is increasing pressure on Israel to minimize civilian casualties in Gaza and transition to a "lower intensity" war against Hamas. President Joe Biden urged Israel to be more careful in protecting civilians while continuing to target Hamas. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss conditions for shifting to more targeted military operations. The US wants the war to end as soon as possible, but Hamas bears the responsibility for ending the conflict. Biden's criticism of Israel's handling of the conflict has caused divisions between him and Netanyahu. The war has resulted in a high death toll, with thousands killed in Gaza and hundreds in Israel. The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, with the US among the countries voting against it.