Blinken communicated to Netanyahu the urgent necessity of ensuring the safety and protection of civilians in Gaza

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken landed in Tel Aviv early Thursday for discussions with Israeli leadership about the ceasefire with Hamas and facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza.

This marks Blinken’s third trip to the Middle East following the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, which began with an October 7 attack by the militant group, resulting in over 1,200 casualties.

Blinken acknowledged the effectiveness of the current truce between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, noting its positive outcomes. “The ceasefire over the past week has led to significant developments, including the return of hostages to their families,” he commented during a session with Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Tel Aviv.

“The truce has also increased the flow of much-needed humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, which is a positive outcome of this process. We are seeing results, and it’s crucial that this continues,” Blinken added.

In discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken highlighted the importance of civilian safety in southern Gaza, a region where many have sought refuge. The State Department revealed that Blinken “underscored the critical need to consider humanitarian and civilian protection in southern Gaza ahead of any military action.” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that Blinken “urged Israel to take every precaution to minimize civilian casualties.”