Staff Reports
The White House expressed deep sorrow over the accidental killing of three Israeli hostages during a raid by Israeli forces against Hamas in Gaza. The tragic incident occurred as the hostages were mistakenly identified as a threat by the Israeli forces. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby conveyed the heartbreaking news to reporters, emphasizing the unexpected and devastating outcome.
'Heartbreaking': White House reacts to accidental killing of hostages by Israeli forces https://t.co/3yDUS71IRu
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) December 15, 2023
Kirby revealed that President Biden was briefed about the incident by his national security team, demonstrating the seriousness with which the administration is handling the situation. However, President Biden had not yet spoken directly to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the incident, indicating a lack of immediate communication between the two leaders.
In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu described the incident as an “unbearable tragedy,” highlighting the gravity of the situation and the impact it has had on the Israeli leadership. While Kirby noted that the U.S. did not have “perfect visibility” into the specifics of the raid, he acknowledged that Israel would likely conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the tragic mistake.
Despite the tragic turn of events, Kirby refrained from drawing broad conclusions about Israeli operations in Gaza, emphasizing the need to consider the broader context of the conflict. He pointed out that Israel had previously executed precise raids in the region, suggesting that the accidental killing of the hostages was an isolated incident rather than a reflection of Israel’s overall conduct.
Kirby emphasized the shared grief and mourning with the families of the slain hostages, recognizing the profound loss they have suffered. The White House’s response to the tragic incident reflects a commitment to empathy and diplomacy in handling delicate international matters, aiming to navigate the complex dynamics of the Middle East peace process while expressing solidarity with Israel.
