In a recent statement at the UN Security Council on the Israel-Gaza conflict, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured that the US does not seek conflict with Iran. However, he made it clear that the US would act swiftly and decisively in defense of its personnel if Iran or its proxies were to attack them. Blinken's statement comes amidst growing concerns over the escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict and the potential for further crises in the Middle East.

To protect its troops in the region, the US military is taking new measures, such as sending more warships and aircraft to the Middle East as a deterrent to Iran and Iran-backed groups. This includes the deployment of two aircraft carriers. Blinken indirectly warned Iran and any other state or non-state actor against considering opening another front in the conflict, urging them not to "throw fuel on the fire." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also addressed the Security Council, pleading for the protection of civilians in the war between Israel and Hamas. He expressed concern about clear violations of international humanitarian law in the Gaza Strip.

Guterres acknowledged that the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum and highlighted the long-standing grievances of the Palestinian people under occupation. However, he emphasized that these grievances cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas, nor can they justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. According to Gaza's health ministry, more than 700 Palestinians have been killed in overnight Israeli airstrikes, marking the highest 24-hour death toll since the start of the bombing campaign.

Guterres stressed the importance of adhering to the rules of war, particularly in protecting and respecting civilians. The US's stance on Iran and its commitment to defending its personnel, combined with the UN's calls for the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law, underscore the complexities and challenges surrounding the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community must strive for a diplomatic resolution and work towards de-escalation to prevent further loss of life and a wider regional conflict.