Primary U.S. focus is de-escalation.
On Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki relayed President Biden’s “serious concerns” over ongoing rocket attacks by Hamas and other groups against targets in Israel. She also expressed that Israel has a legitimate right to defend itself.
“Jerusalem, a city of such importance to people of faith around the world, must be a place of co-existence,” the press secretary said. She told reporters the primary focus of the United States is on the de-escalation of tensions.
The most serious outbreak of fighting since 2019 between Israel and armed factions in Gaza has seen hundreds of rockets fired from Gaza into both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The Israeli Defense Forces have responded with airstrikes against the site where rockets were being launched. A 13-story residential block building that also houses offices used by the political leadership of Hamas was struck and collapsed.
Many of the rockets have managed to get through the Israel Iron Dome short-range air defense system.
The U.S. State Department has urged restraint on both sides.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For discernment for U.S. and foreign officials on bringing an end to the rocket strikes against Israel.
- For understanding for the president and his administration regarding tensions in the Middle East.
- For protection for tthe people and leaders of Israel.
Sources: Reuters, NY Times
