Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the U.S. stands squarely by Israel and will ensure it “has what it needs to defend itself” after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared w…

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the U.S. stands squarely by Israel and will ensure it “has what it needs to defend itself” after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared war against Palestinian militants that launched a surprise attack on his country.

Austin said in a statement he was “closely monitoring developments in Israel” and extended his condolences to families of the victims who lost their lives in the Saturday attack.

“Our commitment to Israel’s right to defend itself remains unwavering,” Austin said. “Over the coming days the Department of Defense will work to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism.”

The U.S. is one of Israel’s staunchest allies and has provided around $3.8 billion a year to the country.

Netanyahu declared war on Saturday against Palestinian militant groups after Hamas launched a surprise, multi-frontal attack inside Israel.

Militants launched more than 2,000 missiles and stormed Israel from multiple directions after infiltrating the border.

  • @takeda@lemmy.worldEnglish
    10•1 year ago

    After seeing videos recorded by militants themselves, it is really hard to support Palestine. It looks like likely Gaza strip (controlled by Hamas) might be no more after this and there might be little international opposition.

    I think Hamas fucked Palestinians hard with this move.

    I normally don’t support Israel, but there’s no way I support this.

    • @bobman@unilem.orgEnglish
      3•1 year ago

      I’m not saying support Palestine.

      I’m saying remove funding for Israel, one of the wealthiest nations in the world.

      If they need more money, they can take it from their ruling class instead of our taxpayers.