US Senator Bernie Sanders calls for humanitarian pause

Bernie Sanders, an independent senator from Vermont, is calling for a humanitarian pause to the war, in a move that comes after more than 300 former staffers of his demanded a ceasefire to the conflict.

"To my mind, a pause is essential for the protection of civilians as required by the laws of war, as well as for the provision of robust supplies of food, water, and medical aid to address the growing humanitarian catastrophe," Sanders said, without mentioning a ceasefire.

Sanders also called for a briefing from the Biden administration on what an Israeli ground invasion and occupation of Gaza.

"I have serious concerns about what this invasion and potential occupation of Gaza will mean, both in terms of the long-term security of Israel and the well-being of the Palestinian residents of Gaza," he said.