In a press briefing on Monday, Matthew (Matt) Miller, the spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, emphasized that while the United States supports sending ammunition to Tel Aviv, Israel must act in accordance with international laws.
The U.S. Department of Defense, through emergency powers, dispatched 14,000 tank shells valued at $106.5 million to Israel, bypassing approval from the country's Congress and Senate, as announced in an official statement. The U.S. Secretary of State informed Congress of this decision, underscoring that the use of these tank shells should align with international humanitarian law.
Miller stated that Washington expects recipient countries of U.S. weaponry to adhere to the laws of war, emphasizing that Israel is no exception. He stressed the importance of Israel complying with international humanitarian law, asserting that Israeli leaders are well aware of these obligations.
The spokesperson outlined U.S. efforts to resolve the conflict in a way that safeguards civilian lives and prevents the re-arming of Hamas. He mentioned that the U.S. special representative has urged Israeli authorities to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza, with the envoy, David Satterfield, meeting with Israeli officials for this purpose.
Despite providing military support to Tel Aviv, Miller maintained that there is no definitive military solution to the Palestinian issue unless an independent Palestinian state is established.
Addressing concerns about Israel's use of white phosphorus, the spokesperson expressed unease over reports and clarified that while there is a legal military use for white phosphorus, deploying it against civilians is unacceptable. Organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have reported Israel's use of white phosphorus artillery shells in Gaza and the Israel-Lebanon border.
In response to the publication of explicit images of Gaza residents by the Israeli regime, Miller conveyed deep concern, stating that the U.S. has requested an explanation from Israel regarding these images.
Lastly, Miller urged the evacuation of 1,200 American citizens and permanent residents from the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
As the conflict continues, the Ministry of Health of Gaza reported a staggering toll, with 18,205 casualties during the 66 days of aggression by the Zionist regime.
News ID : 2683