Principal National Security Advisor Jon Finer quote

In the past month, following a tragic attack by Hamas in Israel that claimed 1,400 lives, Israel's response has been forceful and has garnered global outrage. Calls for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid have grown louder, with the U.S. advocating for a humanitarian pause. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently visited Ramallah to discuss the future of a Palestinian state. The U.S. is committed to securing the release of hostages, providing aid to Gaza's civilians, and preventing further conflict while supporting Israel in countering terrorism.

Principal National Security Advisor Jon Finer sat down with Margaret Brennan on CBS Face the Nation to discuss the ongoing conflict.

“Look, we've been quite clear that the way that Hamas conducts this fight, launching an appalling attack on Israel, and then retreating into the Gaza Strip and essentially concealing themselves among a densely populated civilian population, is unconscionable. At the same time, while that raises the burden on the Israeli military to conduct this fight and go after Hamas, it does not diminish their obligation to do so in a way that distinguishes between civilians and fighters. And we have had many direct conversations with the government of Israel on that topic, and we will continue to do that.”– Principal National Security Advisor Jon Finer