International desk: Israel continues to attack the besieged Gaza territory for more than four months with the aim of eliminating Hamas. This attack has already killed more than 27 thousand Palestinians in the territory. US President Joe Biden has now admitted that the number of innocent civilians among the dead is “much higher”.
Anadolu news agency reported this information in a report on Tuesday (February 13).
According to the report, in a joint press conference with King Abdullah II of Jordan at the White House on Monday, Biden said, “Among the 27,000 Palestinians killed in the conflict, there are many innocent civilians, including thousands of children.” Millions of people in Gaza are unable to meet food, drink or other basic needs, and many families have lost not just one, but many relatives. It’s heartbreaking.’
“Every innocent life lost in Gaza is a tragedy,” he said. Every innocent life lost in Israel is a tragedy. We pray for both the Israelis and Palestinians who were killed, and for all the bereaved families.’
The US president said the US is working on a prisoner exchange deal between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. The deal “will bring a sustainable and well-being for all to Gaza for at least six weeks.” Later we may extend it for some more time.’
Reiterating earlier US calls, Biden said, “There should be no major military operation in Rafah without a credible plan to ensure the safety and assistance of the more than 1 million people taking refuge there.”
“They need to be protected,” Biden said, noting that there are many displaced people in Rafah who have fled their homes to escape the violence. We oppose any forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.’
In a press conference, Jordan’s King Abdullah II expressed concern over Israel’s plan to attack Rafah, saying, “It will definitely cause another humanitarian disaster.” The situation is already unbearable for the more than 1 million people who have taken refuge in Rafah since the war began. Such a situation cannot be allowed to continue. Gaza needs a permanent ceasefire now. This war should end.’
