Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Israel had a “moral duty” to protect civilians during a visit to Tel Aviv, balancing his request that Israel take steps to reduce the risk of Gazans being caught up in deadly battles against what he said was Washington’s “unshakable” support for Israel’s security and “right to defend itself.” Austin’s second visit to Israel since the conflict began comes amid mounting concern over the rising death toll in Gaza and deteriorating conditions for its 2 million-plus residents. Meanwhile, talks have resumed on a potential deal to free more than 100 hostages still held by Hamas.
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