Austin Calls for Increased Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that efforts are being made to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, stressing the need to boost aid to the Gaza Strip following its recent decline, according to American media reports.

Austin highlighted that the number of civilian casualties in Gaza is excessively high and mentioned that he has urged Israel to avoid targeting civilians.

He also called for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza, emphasizing serious efforts to push for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Austin reaffirmed that Washington will continue to provide Israel with the necessary support to defend its borders and sovereignty.

The U.S. Defense Secretary further stressed the need for Lebanese and Israeli civilians to return to their homes, noting that Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant assured him that the Israeli army's bombing of UNIFIL forces was unintentional.

Austin added that Hamas' military capabilities have been significantly reduced.