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The White House on Thursday said that at least 27 American citizens have died as a result of unfolding violence in Israel, marking an uptick in the number of fatalities from earlier in the day.

National security spokesman John Kirby also said that the number of Americans unaccounted for is 14, which is a decrease from the 17 unaccounted for Wednesday.

Kirby on Wednesday said that the number of Americans believed to be held as hostages is "very small" but wouldn't give more information about proof of life or details about whereabouts and condition.

U.S. officials are working with the Israelis, allies in the region such as Qatar and family members of those Americans missing to try to secure their release amid a very complex situation, according to the White House.