Israeli leaders have told US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan that Israel will continue its military offensive into the Palestinian territory of the Gaza Strip despite international calls for a ceasefire.
Sullivan was in Israel on Thursday to meet with officials. The US had expressed its concern about the increasing civilian casualties in the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza.
Speaking to the press alongside Sullivan, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant said the war against Hamas “will require a long period; it will last more than several months,” Xinhua news agency reported.
The two met at the Israeli Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv to discuss the Israeli offensive in Gaza, the border conflict with Lebanon, and the dozens of hostages being held in Gaza, according to a statement issued by the Israeli Defense Ministry.
Referring to attacks by Yemeni Houthi forces on ships belonging to Israel as well as Eilat, an Israeli resort town on the coast of the Red Sea, Gallant said Israel “will support international efforts in countering naval threats and will respond to any threats.” It will protect itself from.”
Sullivan said Israel “has the support of the United States to combat this terrorist threat.”
