US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller raised concerns about a deadly incident on Tuesday following an Israeli attack on a residential building in the town of Beit Lahiya in Northern Gaza.
It is so far estimated that at least 93 Palestinians are killed or missing following the airstrike, with the Gaza health ministry reporting that dozens more, many of whom were children, are said to be wounded.The exact death toll is still unclear, but Miller branded the strike a "horrifying incident with a horrifying result."He went on to say that the US had made contact with Israeli officials to request further information on the assault, demanding an explanation as to how dozens of children have reportedly lost their lives.This follows an earlier threat by the Biden administration to withdraw military support from Israel within 30 days unless the humanitarian condition improves.Reiterating the need for a ceasefire in the strategic interests of Israel, Miller said:"It is critically important ...
that Israel be mindful of achieving a larger strategic success, and that (Israel) be mindful of finding a way to end this campaign in a way that brings the hostages home, in a way that ensures their security, and not just continuing in an endless, perpetual conflict," Miller said.Speaking at the US Department of State’s daily press briefing, Miller also expressed how the country was "deeply troubled" at Monday’s passing of legislation that would place a ban on the operations of United Nations Relief and Works Agency, UNRWA.
The two new laws passed with an overwhelming majority, and although the implications are unclear, they will likely severely hinder the operations of the largest aid provider in the region.