US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned on Friday that any assault on the city of Rafah in southern Gaza could lead to increased isolation for Israel and jeopardize its long-term security.
During his departure from Israel, Blinken emphasized having “frank discussions,” alluding to his meetings with officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu, following his talks with Blinken, asserted that Israel is ready to continue its campaign against Hamas independently, amid strained relations between the allies over the Gaza conflict, now entering its sixth month.
The US Secretary of State affirmed Washington’s support for Israel’s objective to defeat Hamas and ensure its long-term security. However, he clarified that a large-scale ground operation in Rafah would not be the most suitable approach to achieve this.
Blinken warned that such an operation would risk civilian casualties, escalate humanitarian concerns, and potentially isolate Israel further on the global stage, ultimately threatening its security and reputation.
President Joe Biden and Netanyahu agreed on an upcoming visit by an Israeli delegation to Washington to discuss Israeli strategies concerning Rafah.
Blinken highlighted the need to enhance and sustain humanitarian aid for Gaza residents, citing widespread food insecurity and urgent humanitarian needs in the region.
The minister acknowledged some positive steps taken recently to alleviate the situation but emphasized that more actions were required.
Blinken also mentioned ongoing talks in Doha aimed at securing a temporary ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas since the October 7 attack.
He stressed that while progress had been made in narrowing differences, resolving the remaining issues posed significant challenges.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned on Friday that any assault on the city of Rafah in southern Gaza could lead to increased isolation for Israel and jeopardize its long-term security.
During his departure from Israel, Blinken emphasized having “frank discussions,” alluding to his meetings with officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu, following his talks with Blinken, asserted that Israel is ready to continue its campaign against Hamas independently, amid strained relations between the allies over the Gaza conflict, now entering its sixth month.
The US Secretary of State affirmed Washington’s support for Israel’s objective to defeat Hamas and ensure its long-term security. However, he clarified that a large-scale ground operation in Rafah would not be the most suitable approach to achieve this.
Blinken warned that such an operation would risk civilian casualties, escalate humanitarian concerns, and potentially isolate Israel further on the global stage, ultimately threatening its security and reputation.
President Joe Biden and Netanyahu agreed on an upcoming visit by an Israeli delegation to Washington to discuss Israeli strategies concerning Rafah.
Blinken highlighted the need to enhance and sustain humanitarian aid for Gaza residents, citing widespread food insecurity and urgent humanitarian needs in the region.
The minister acknowledged some positive steps taken recently to alleviate the situation but emphasized that more actions were required.
Blinken also mentioned ongoing talks in Doha aimed at securing a temporary ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas since the October 7 attack.
He stressed that while progress had been made in narrowing differences, resolving the remaining issues posed significant challenges.
