WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration released a report on Friday indicating that Israel’s use of U.S.-provided weapons during the Gaza conflict likely breached international humanitarian law. While unable to directly link specific U.S. weapons to individual airstrikes, the report highlights concerns about civilian casualties and the targeting of protected sites.

Finding of Reasonable Evidence

The report, prompted by President Joe Biden’s fellow Democrats in Congress, represents the strongest statement from the administration regarding Israel’s conduct in the conflict with Hamas. Despite not being able to attribute U.S. weapons to specific attacks, the administration finds it reasonable to assess that such weapons were used in a manner inconsistent with international humanitarian law.

Civilian Casualties and Targeted Sites

The conflict, spanning seven months, has resulted in a significant loss of life, particularly among Palestinian civilians, with nearly 35,000 casualties, predominantly women and children. International human rights groups have pointed to multiple Israeli airstrikes targeting aid convoys, medical facilities, journalists, and schools, actions they argue violate the laws of war.

Israel’s Defense and Justification

Israel maintains that its actions are within the bounds of international law, citing its measures to minimize civilian harm and its response to threats posed by Hamas. However, the civilian death toll in many strikes has raised concerns

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