US, Israeli security advisors discuss 'ongoing conflict' in Gaza

WASHINGTON

Senior US and Israeli security advisors discussed "the ongoing conflict in Gaza" in a phone call Wednesday, said the White House.

The call between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi came a day after Israel launched airstrikes in Gaza.

"Sullivan reaffirmed the Administration's ironclad support for Israel's security, as well as its right to defend its people from indiscriminate rocket attacks," said the White House in a statement.

"Sullivan also noted continued regional efforts to broker a ceasefire and emphasized the need to deescalate tensions and prevent further loss of life," said the statement.

Palestinian factions fired a barrage of rockets Wednesday into Israel amid tensions following Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

At least 21 Palestinians were killed and 64 injured in the airstrikes, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

The Israeli army said the airstrikes were part of Operation Shield and Arrow in response to rocket fire from Gaza following the death last week of a Palestinian who was on a hunger strike in an Israeli prison.

At least 130 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the start of 2023, according to Palestinian figures. Nineteen Israelis have been killed in separate attacks during the same period.