US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a private meeting in Jerusalem. The meeting, initially held between the two leaders, was scheduled to expand into broader discussions involving their respective staff members.
Netanyahu was accompanied by a contingent of key advisors, including Strategic Affairs Adviser Ron Dermer, National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi, Military Secretary Avi Gil, Political Adviser Ophir Falk, Chief of Staff Tzachi Braverman, and Ambassador to Washington Michael Herzog.
On the other side, Blinken's team comprised Ambassador Jack Lew, Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Affairs Lisa Grande, and Assistant Secretary of State for the Middle East Barbara Leaf.
Blinken's visit to Israel follows his recent diplomatic efforts in Saudi Arabia, where he advocated for a ceasefire in Gaza. Prior to his arrival in Israel, Blinken pushed for urgent action to address the ongoing conflict.
He emphasised the need to alleviate the suffering of civilians in Gaza and urged for immediate humanitarian assistance to address essential needs such as food, medicine, and shelter.
During his meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Tel Aviv, Blinken reiterated his stance on the Gaza crisis, placing responsibility for the failure of a hostage deal squarely on Hamas.
He emphasised the urgency of the situation, urging for prompt action to address the humanitarian crisis and calling for decisive steps to achieve a ceasefire.
Blinken also discussed Israel's proposed ceasefire with Hamas, describing it as "extraordinarily generous." He emphasised that the onus was on Hamas to accept the proposal and prioritise the well-being of the people of Gaza.
Blinken's remarks underscored the importance of swift action to prevent further escalation of the conflict and alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
The discussions in Israel are part of Blinken's broader diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in Gaza and promote stability in the region. His engagement with Israeli and Palestinian leaders reflects the United States' commitment to facilitating dialogue and finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
In Riyadh, Blinken reiterated the urgency of the situation and emphasised the need for Hamas to make the right decision quickly. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism about the potential acceptance of the ceasefire proposal by both Israel and Hamas.
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