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TEL AVIV, Oct 12 (Reuters) – U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken Visits Israel to Address Middle East Conflict
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday as part of his Middle East tour aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Blinken plans to also visit key American allies Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates during his trip.
The visit marks Blinken’s most extensive trip to the Middle East since assuming office in January 2021. The escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has led to civilian casualties and raised concerns of further spillover, is the most serious situation in the region in years.
During their meeting, Blinken expressed solidarity and reassured Netanyahu of America’s support, stating, “As long as America exists, you will never ever have to defend yourself alone. We will always be there by your side.” He emphasized the importance of taking precautions to minimize civilian casualties, which sets democratic governments apart from groups like Hamas that target civilians.
In addition to the meeting with Netanyahu, Blinken also toured a donation center and spoke with an Israeli-American survivor of a recent Hamas attack. The U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, Steve Gillen, accompanied Blinken to Israel to support efforts to free American hostages taken by Hamas.
Blinken will continue his trip with visits to Jordan, where he will meet with King Abdullah and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. The United States is also offering charter flights to Europe for Americans who wish to leave Israel.
The Biden administration has expressed its commitment to ensuring Israel’s defense needs are met as they evolve. The administration plans to request additional funding from Congress to support these needs.
In terms of addressing the conflict, the United States is working with regional allies to discourage Iran and Iran-backed groups from involvement. They are also working to facilitate safe passage for civilians, including Palestinian Americans, residing in Gaza.
Containing the conflict and preventing its escalation across borders is a priority for the United States. Blinken has been engaging with regional allies to urge them to advise Tehran to stay out of the conflict.
The conflict has already seen incidents of air strikes in Syria and exchanges of fire across the Lebanese border between Israel and the armed group Hezbollah.
Overall, Blinken’s visit to the region aims to address the ongoing conflict and promote stability in the Middle East, ensuring the safety and security of both Israel and its allies.