Secretary of State Blinken Urges Israel: Protect Civilians & Comply with International Law Amidst Gaza Conflict

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Israel to comply with international law and protect civilians during its conflict with Hamas in Gaza. In a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken reiterated the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Israel's right to self-defense but emphasized the importance of preventing civilian harm during military operations. Blinken also urged immediate action to hold settler extremists accountable for violence against Palestinians in the West Bank and expressed the U.S.'s support for resuming a peace process that would lead to the creation of a Palestinian state.

Despite Netanyahu's focus on eliminating Hamas and ensuring the release of abductees, Blinken maintained that the U.S. wants to see a resolution that prioritizes protection of innocent lives and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also condemned recent terrorist attacks and expressed hope for continued truce and humanitarian assistance, urging Hamas to cooperate. Blinken concluded his trip to the Middle East by meeting with Arab leaders in the UAE to discuss the situation in Gaza.