US Rejects Gaza Ceasefire, Citing Hamas' Hostage Situation

The United States has rejected calls for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war, stating that it would only benefit Hamas. While the U.S. supports humanitarian pauses to allow aid and evacuations, civilian casualties are seen as inevitable as Israel aims to defeat Hamas in Gaza. The U.S. has not discussed any red lines with Israel and continues to provide support for Israel's defense. Calls for an end to the fighting are growing, with the U.N. secretary general calling for a humanitarian cease-fire. President Biden has faced pressure from his own party and progressive Jewish groups to take action. Israel, unlike in past conflicts, has set the goal of Hamas's total destruction, making it difficult to back down. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for brief humanitarian pauses, but Israel is concerned about Hamas using aid for military purposes.