Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has arrived in Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict, pledging to continue support for the Jewish state in the wake of a series of deadly terrorist attacks by Hamas.
Blinken’s visit is a powerful show of solidarity with Israel. The U.S. State Department has been vocal in its condemnation of Hamas’ terror tactics against Israel, as well as the recent rocket strikes into Israel carried out by Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
During his stay, Blinken will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior leaders, including the recently named Interim Prime Minister, Yair Lapid. The visit will also include stops in Egypt and Jordan.
Blinken’s time in Israel comes at a critical moment for the region. More than 200 people, mostly civilians, have been killed in the recent hostilities between Gaza-based militants and the Israeli Defense Forces. The conflict has been particularly acute in the densely populated city of Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes have caused an unprecedented wave of destruction.
The Secretary of State has made clear that the United States stands with its ally, Israel. In a statement released ahead of Blinken’s visit, he strongly condemned Hamas’ “indiscriminate attacks against civilian populations” and called for a de-escalation of tensions.
He also emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution, emphasizing the importance of a “sustainable peace” between the two sides.
The U.S. government has already provided substantial military aid to Israel, and further assistance may be forthcoming during Blinken’s visit. Whatever the outcome, the Secretary’s presence in Israel is a powerful signal of U.S. commitment to its ally at a time of great tension.