Biden’s defense chief says he urged Israel to reduce civilian harm in Gaza

TEL AVIV — US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said he urged Israel to protect civilians caught in the war in Gaza and discussed a transition from major combat to lower intensity warfare during a meeting with his Israeli counterpart on Monday.

"In any campaign, there will be phases," Austin told a news conference, saying that required detailed, thoughtful planning and that he would not dictate timelines.

He said he had discussed with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant how to reduce harm to civilians on the battlefield.

"We will also continue to urge the protection of civilians during conflict and to increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza," Austin said. — Reuters