US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Tuesday he has “repeatedly made clear” to Israeli leaders that they must ensure the protection of Palestinian civilians.

“Now, we fully understand that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people. And we mourn the loss of Palestinian civilians,” Austin said in opening remarks to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“I have repeatedly made clear to Israel’s leaders that protecting civilians in Gaza is both a moral responsibility and a strategic imperative. Democracies like ours are stronger and more secure when we uphold the law of war and protect civilians.”

Speaking to the committee, Austin also outlined the Pentagon’s “four key lines of effort” in the Middle East:

• Ensuring the protection of US forces from attacks carried out by Iranian-backed militia groups and taking further action against them if necessary.
• Providing key security assistance to Israel.
• Coordinating with Israel “to help secure the release of every man, woman, and child seized by Hamas."
• Strengthening US force posture in the region.

“Two Carrier Strike Groups are now in the region,” Austin said. “Last week, an additional F-16 squadron arrived in the region, complementing other fighter squadrons already in theater. All this underscores the President’s clear warning: no government or group that wishes Israel harm should try to widen this crisis.”