U.S. on war in Israel: 'We do not support ceasefire'
Photo: The Press Secretary of Pentagon Patrick Ryder (GettyImagеs)
Israel should not cease fire against Hamas militants, as it would allow Hamas to regroup and strengthen its forces, stated the Department of Defense Press Secretary Patrick Ryder during a briefing at the Pentagon.
This would lead to new threats in the region, he added.
"We do not support ceasefire as that gives time for Hamas to regroup, which is something that again would put the Israeli citizens and the others in danger," said Ryder.
He also emphasized that the U.S. supports "humanitarian pauses," necessary to allow humanitarian aid to reach its destination and to continue the release of hostages and the evacuation of civilians from the conflict zone.
Israel's ground operation in Gaza
In early October, Hamas militants launched a large-scale invasion into Israel, killing and kidnapping both military and civilian residents. In response, Israel announced the start of Operation Iron Swords, regularly shelling targets in the Gaza Strip.
On October 27, the Israeli army intensified its attacks on Gaza, and the Israel Defense Forces announced the expansion of their ground operation.
Today, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the beginning of the third phase of the military operation against Hamas.
