US Defense Secretary dismisses genocide claims in Gaza conflict

The United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated during a Senate hearing that there is no evidence to support claims of genocide being committed by Israel in Gaza amid its conflict with Hamas. This comes in the wake of Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 individuals according to Israeli reports. In response, Israel launched a military operation in Gaza, leading to the displacement of nearly the entire population of 2.3 million and sparking allegations of genocide, which Israel has refuted. Despite being a major military supporter of Israel, the United States has urged Israel to take more actions to protect civilians in Gaza.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, with allegations of genocide being denied by Israel and not substantiated by the United States. The displacement of a significant portion of Gaza's population underscores the urgent need for efforts to protect civilians and ensure their safety amidst the escalating violence.