More specifically, at the congressional hearing, Austin was asked how many Palestinian women and children had been killed by Israel, and Austin replied: "It is over 25,000."
For three months, America has admirably stood by Israel, even at the risk of a domestic political price for Biden.
The newly appointed ambassador to Israel has drawn praise from both right and left. But his record in the Obama administration should raise concerns.
Readers of The Jerusalem Post have their say.
There has never been a time in recent memory in which American support for Israel has been more critical.
In 2011, Israel swapped hundreds of Palestinian prisoners to win the release of one Israeli soldier, Gilad Shalit, who was held for five years.
In this moment of exceptional pain, the strength and endurance of the US-Israel alliance offers a traumatized Israeli populace a measure of solace.
Every effort must be made to preserve stability in the West Bank and Jerusalem and find ways to strengthen the Palestinian Authority.
In Israel, the US has an ally on the front lines of the fight against terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and an emboldened Iran.
When it comes to effective communication, Israelis and Americans differ significantly.