In the wake of a series of intense meetings with Israeli leaders and fierce criticism from humanitarian organizations, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a powerful statement on Friday, in Tel Aviv, Israel as he arrived, expressing the need to do more to safeguard civilians in Gaza.
The trip highlights the necessary equilibrium between what Israel considers its right to self-defense and Palestinian civilian safety, as well as the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
According to a press release issued by the U.S. Department of State, Blinken emphasized that “Civilians should not suffer the consequences for Hamas’ inhumanity and its brutality.”
While reiterating support for Israel’s “right” and “obligation” to self-defense in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks, he called for a more comprehensive approach.
Blinken held critical discussions with Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and the Israeli war cabinet. Among the issues discussed were the urgent need for continued humanitarian aid to reach Gaza and efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
“We believe that each of these efforts would be facilitated by humanitarian pauses,” Blinken stated.
However, other sources familiar with the discussions revealed that Israeli officials rejected the idea of a pause in fighting without the release of hostages as a prerequisite.
According to Palestine’s health ministry, Israel’s attacks have claimed the lives of at least 9,200 civilians.