Austin: Civilians Are the Center of Gravity in the Gaza War

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin made his strongest remarks to date on the need for Israel to protect civilians in Gaza, describing them as the center of gravity in Israel's war with the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement "Hamas," and warning of the risks of their radicalization. He noted, "In this type of fighting, the center of gravity is the civilian population. If you push them into the arms of the enemy, you will hasten a strategic defeat that replaces a tactical victory," relying on his experience as a four-star general who fought against ISIS. Austin added, "Therefore, I have consistently made it clear to Israeli leaders that the protection of Palestinian civilians in Gaza is a moral responsibility and a strategic necessity."