President Obama talking on the phone in the Oval Office. Photo: wiki commons.

President Obama spoke on the phone today to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu following an escalation of rocket attacks on southern Israeli towns, and Israel’s targeted strikes on Gaza’s terror infrastructure according to an email send to The Algemeiner by the White House.

The email reads:

“The President reiterated to Prime Minister Netanyahu the United States’ support for Israel’s right to self-defense in light of the barrage of rocket attacks being launched from Gaza against Israeli civilians.  The President urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to make every effort to avoid civilian casualties.  The two agreed that Hamas needs to stop its attacks on Israel to allow the situation to de-escalate.  The two leaders agreed to stay in close touch in the coming days.  Earlier today, Vice President Biden received a briefing from Prime Minister Netanyahu on the events in Gaza.”

The President also spoke to Egyptian President Morsi, who withdrew his ambassador to Israel in response to Israel’s efforts. Obama spoke to Morsi because of “Egypt’s central role in preserving regional security,” according to the White House.

The White House email details their discussion:

“In their conversation, President Obama condemned the rocket fire from Gaza into Israel and reiterated Israel’s right to self-defense.  The two leaders agreed on the importance of working to de-escalate the situation as quickly as possible and agreed to stay in close touch in the days ahead.”