US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has assured Israel of steadfast support in their battle against what he called a reign of terror by Hamas.
Speaking with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the recent attack by Gaza-based militants, Blinken emphasized that Israel will always have America by its side.
Blinken also urged Israel to take care not to harm innocent people during the conflict.
The recent attacks resulted in the loss of over 1,300 Israeli lives and more than 1,400 Palestinian lives in Gaza.
Tragically, 25 US citizens also lost their lives in Israel.
Hamas, an organization designated as terrorists by the US and the European Union, took around 150 people hostage during their coordinated attack that included land, air, and sea operations.
This assault was the deadliest ever conducted by Palestinian militants during Israel’s 75-year history.
Antony Blinken met with Prime Minister Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, where he received gratitude for US support.
During a press conference, Blinken assured Israelis that, “you may be strong enough on your own to defend yourself, but as long as America exists you will never, ever have to”.
He stressed the importance of taking every possible precaution to avoid harming civilians as the conflict continues.
He conveyed that the US deeply mourns the loss of every innocent life.
Gaza’s civilian population faces growing concerns due to dwindling supplies and the anticipation of an Israeli ground offensive.
Blinken also condemned the heinous attacks by Hamas that resulted in loss of life.
Netanyahu expressed that Blinken’s visit was a clear demonstration of America’s unwavering support for Israel.
He mentioned that President Biden accurately described the attack as an act of sheer evil.
Blinken also met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and he is scheduled to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Jordan’s King Abdullah in Amman.
President Joe Biden conveyed that Israel must operate according to the rules of war in response to Hamas’ attacks, emphasizing that they have a duty to respond to acts of sheer evil.
Israel has imposed a total blockade on Gaza, affecting essential supplies like food and fuel, which will continue until hostages are released.
Israel has also launched a bombing campaign in Gaza, home to 2.3 million people.
According to an unnamed US State Department official quoted by Reuters, there are approximately 600 Americans in Gaza, some of whom wish to leave.
In the meantime, humanitarian agencies are calling for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to alleviate the suffering of civilians in Gaza.
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