President Joe Biden confirmed that at least 11 U.S. citizens were killed in the recent Hamas attacks on Israel from Gaza, and there may be other Americans held in captivity. This announcement came after the State Department initially reported nine American casualties among the over 900 reported deaths.
Biden expressed his sorrow over the loss of American lives and highlighted that many of the victims had made Israel their second home. He also acknowledged the horrors of the terrorist assault against Israel and the hundreds of innocent civilians who lost their lives.
While he did not disclose specific names, Senator Josh Hawley revealed on X that at least one of the victims was a Missouri native, a musician, wife, and mother, along with her husband.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated, with Israel declaring war on Hamas and launching airstrikes on Gaza. There are concerns that the conflict may expand, as Hezbollah in Lebanon reportedly started exchanging fire with Israel.
Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu expressed Israel’s stance that they did not initiate the war but were forced into it by Hamas. He thanked leaders worldwide for their support, specifically mentioning President Biden, the U.S. Congress, and the American people.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 1,500 reported casualties and thousands more wounded in Israel and Gaza. Dozens of individuals are believed to be taken hostage by Hamas, with threats of execution in response to Israeli airstrikes.
President Biden stated that U.S. officials are working with Israeli counterparts to locate unaccounted American citizens. His administration is coordinating efforts for hostage recovery and providing consular assistance and security alerts to U.S. citizens in Israel.
Biden urged Americans to stand in solidarity with Israelis, emphasizing unwavering resolve against terrorism in all forms and highlighting the inseparable partnership between the United States and the State of Israel. Security measures have been reinforced at Jewish centers in U.S. cities, and federal officials are closely monitoring domestic threats related to the terrorist attacks in Israel.