No Evidence of Genocide in Gaza, U.S. Says Pentagon Chief

During a Senate hearing on Tuesday, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the United States does not possess evidence suggesting that Israel is engaging in genocide in Gaza amid its conflict with the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas.

Addressing the Senate Armed Services Committee, Austin stated, “We don’t have evidence of that.” His remarks come amidst escalating tensions in the region following Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, according to Israeli estimates.

In response to Hamas’ actions, Israel launched a military operation targeting Hamas-controlled Gaza, leading to the displacement of nearly all of its 2.3 million inhabitants. These actions have sparked allegations of genocide against Israel, although the country denies these claims.

The United States, as Israel’s primary military supporter, has urged Israel to take steps to minimize harm to civilians in Gaza while continuing to support its military efforts. However, Austin’s statement emphasizes that the U.S. government has not found evidence to support accusations of genocide in the region.