Biden reiterates importance of protecting civilians in call with Netanyahu

US President Joe Biden “reaffirmed the United States’ support for Israel’s right to defend itself and obligation to protect its citizens, while underscoring the importance of operating consistent with the law of war to include the protection of civilians in Gaza caught in the conflict launched by Hamas,” the White House says in its readout from his call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier today.

The two leaders also “discussed follow-up from the president’s visit to Israel earlier this week, including plans to begin moving humanitarian assistance into Gaza from Egypt,” the readout says.

“The leaders discussed ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas – including US citizens – and to provide for safe passage for US citizens and other civilians in Gaza,” the US readout adds.