Byline: By Roov Koret

In a 180 degree correction of the U.S. stance on Israel’s military operations in Gaza, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby bluntly walked back President Joe Biden’s assertions about Israel’s “indiscriminate bombing.” He emphasized the unusual actions that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) takes to minimize civilian casualties.

Kirby highlighted the IDF’s practice of publicly sharing evacuation maps in Gaza, a rare tactic in modern warfare. “That’s basically telegraphing your punches. There are very few modern militaries in the world that would do that. I don’t know that we would do that,” he said during a recent press briefing. This comment seems to counter Biden’s critique, highlighting Israel’s deliberate and cautious approach in its military campaign against Hamas.

However, Kirby’s acknowledgment of Israel’s discriminative measures comes at a cost. Israeli forces have faced increased casualties as they shifted from air support to more risky ground operations, including house-to-house combat in densely populated areas. This tactical change, while aimed at protecting civilian lives, has placed Israeli soldiers in greater danger, underscoring the complex trade-offs in urban warfare scenarios. The deaths of 10 Israeli soliders were announced December 12.

This strategy adjustment by Israel reflects a nuanced approach to combating a terrorist organization deeply embedded within civilian areas. Kirby’s remarks shed light on the intricate balance Israel is attempting to maintain between achieving its military objectives and upholding ethical standards in warfare.

President Biden’s administration, while continuing to support Israel’s right to defend itself, has expressed concerns about the humanitarian implications of the conflict. Kirby’s comments signal a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by Israel in its effort to dismantle Hamas’ infrastructure while trying to avoid civilian casualties.

The war, which escalated following Hamas’s brutal attacks on October 7, has resulted in a significant death toll. Despite the reported numbers by the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, Israel maintains that these include casualties from misfired Palestinian rockets and Hamas militants.

As the international community calls for a ceasefire and the release of hostages, Kirby’s statements mark a critical juncture in the U.S. administration’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. They reflect an evolving perspective that acknowledges the complexity of Israel’s military decisions in the face of an adversary that often operates within civilian settings.

Now we can await Bumbling Biden’s accusations against Israel for “discrimination.”