A number of Americans were killed in the surprise attacks on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, a US official confirmed on Sunday, without giving further details.
"We can confirm the deaths of several US citizens," a spokesperson for the US National Security Council said. "We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and to the families of all those affected."
The official did not provide any further details, such as the exact number of Americans killed or their identities.
"We can confirm the deaths of several US citizens," a spokesperson for the US National Security Council said, as quoted by news agency AFP. "We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and to the families of all those affected."
US President Joe Biden ordered the deployment of US ships and warplanes to Israel on Sunday, signaling Washington's "unwavering" support for its ally in the face of escalating attacks by Hamas.
The Pentagon said it was sending the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford and its accompanying warships to the eastern Mediterranean, while boosting fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.
The White House has swiftly reaffirmed US support for Israel after the deadly attack from the Gaza Strip, pledging "rock-solid" solidarity and calling for restraint from other parties to the conflict, following confirmation that "several" American citizens were killed.
President Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday and pledged additional assistance for the Israeli Defense Forces, which is now on its way to Israel.
"The leaders also discussed ongoing efforts to ensure that no enemies of Israel believe they can or should seek advantage from the current situation," the White House said in a statement.
President Biden "pledged his full support for the Government and people of Israel in the face of an unprecedented and appalling assault by Hamas terrorists."