Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:32pm on 18 Dec 2023,Monday International
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to encourage Israel to de-escalate major combat operations in Gaza during his visit on Monday. France, the UK, and Germany, close allies of Israel, have joined global calls for a ceasefire. Israeli protesters demand talks with militants after three hostages were accidentally killed while waving a white flag. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aims to defeat Hamas, release hostages, and end the war. The US, while supporting Israel, presses for precision in operations to minimize civilian impact. Over 18,700 Palestinians killed, and pressure for a ceasefire intensifies. Austin's visit marks a pivotal moment.
