Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated on Tuesday that the United States has not found any evidence suggesting that Israel has engaged in genocide during its military operations against Hamas in Gaza.
During a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing centered around President Joe Biden’s recent budget request, Austin stated that there is no evidence to support the claim that genocide is currently being perpetrated.
During a Senate hearing, Senator Tom Cotton asked Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, about Israel’s actions in Gaza, specifically questioning whether it constitutes genocide. In response, Austin reiterated that there is no evidence to support such claims.
During the Israel-Hamas war, there has been widespread criticism of the Israel Defense Forces’ handling of military operations in the Gaza Strip. This criticism has been echoed by many countries, including the United States. The Gaza Health Ministry, which is controlled by Hamas, reports that the conflict has resulted in over 33,000 deaths and more than 75,000 injuries.
During the hearing, Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi posed a question to Austin regarding the classification of Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7th as an act of genocide.
During the Senate hearing, Senator, on October 7th, Secretary of Defense Austin expressed his grave concern over the devastating terrorist attack carried out by Hamas. He emphasized that this heinous act falls under the category of a war crime.
According to the ruling of the court’s judges, there is a valid case to be heard regarding genocide. As the legal process continues, they have directed Israel to take necessary actions to prevent any acts of genocide against Palestinians. It is important to note that the court does not have the authority to enforce its rulings.
On Tuesday, Austin provided testimony that marked a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict, as the United States seeks to exert its influence over Israel’s approach in Gaza in order to reduce civilian casualties. In a recent phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Biden issued a warning, indicating that the U.S. stance towards its longstanding ally may undergo a shift if Israel does not alter its course in Gaza.
Israel, after several hours, consented to opening up more aid routes to facilitate the entry of additional humanitarian assistance into Gaza.
Last week, a military strike in Gaza led to the tragic death of a convoy of aid workers from World Central Kitchen. Israel was responsible for this devastating incident.
Israel’s military announced on Sunday that it was pulling out its troops from southern Gaza. However, it remains uncertain whether this withdrawal signifies a shift in its offensive operations.
Efforts are underway by U.S. officials to broker a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, although progress in negotiations has yet to be achieved.
Senator Wicker posed a question to Austin during the hearing on Tuesday. He inquired whether Hamas would cease its aggression towards Israel if the country were to disarm at present.
Austin expressed his skepticism, stating, “I highly doubt that.”
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