Israel-Gaza conflict: Nine US citizens confirmed dead; 10 Britons feared dead or missing

The United States on Monday confirmed the death of nine Americans in Israel during the violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reported Reuters.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and to the families of all those affected, and wish those injured a speedy recovery. We continue to monitor the situation closely and remain in touch with our Israeli partners, particularly the local authorities," a National Security Council spokesperson said in a statement.

Meanwhile, more than 10 Britons are feared dead or missing in Israel, Sky News reported.


At least eight French nationals were missing, dead or taken hostage after Hamas's weekend attack on Israel, reported AFP citing a lawmaker on Monday.

But the foreign ministry confirmed the deaths of only two citizens in a statement.

"France regrets the tragic death of a second French national, who fell victim to Hamas's terrorist attacks against Israel," the ministry said.

"We are continuing our efforts to clarify the situations of those of our nationals who remain unaccounted for," it added.

The death toll in the Gaza Strip rose to 560 on Monday, the health ministry in the Palestinian enclave said, as Israel pounded Hamas targets for the third consecutive day.

The Hamas-controlled ministry said "570 people were killed and another 2,900 injured" in the fighting that began on Saturday after Hamas militants fired thousands of rockets in Israel in a surprise dawn assault.

(With inputs from agencies)