US Urges Israel to Target Hamas Leaders with Precision, Not Widespread Bombing

The United States is urging Israel to shift its tactics in the ongoing war in Gaza, focusing on precise targeting of Hamas leaders rather than widespread bombing and ground operations. The White House national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, emphasized the need for a transition to a new phase of the war, one that will be more intelligence-driven and focused on targeting the leadership of Hamas. The White House has been engaged in intensive discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the war cabinet, and military chiefs, to push for a faster end to the high-intensity phase of the war.

The US has been applying pressure for a shift to occur by the end of the year, as reported by the New York Times. The Israeli offensive, which has already lasted for three months, has sparked global pressure to reduce civilian casualties and curtail widespread bombing and ground operations. President Joe Biden and top US officials have expressed increasing concern over the long-term plan for Gaza and the high number of civilian casualties. Israel's aggressive offensive was launched in response to a surprise attack by Hamas militants that left around 1,200 people dead in southern Israel.

Despite increasing international concern, Israeli leaders have vowed to continue the offensive, with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stating that the war will last more than several months. The United States has provided billions of dollars in military aid to Israel but is now pressing for more careful attacks to minimize civilian casualties. President Biden has warned that international support for Israel is dwindling due to the indiscriminate bombing of the Palestinian enclave. However, the US is in private discussions with Israel to reach an agreement that will align with Israel's assurances that it distinguishes between civilians and militants. The focus moving forward will be on intelligence-driven operations and the precise targeting of Hamas leadership, according to Sullivan. The US is hopeful for a transition to this new phase of the war in the coming days.