Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel on Wednesday in a show of solidarity following a surge of Hamas terrorist attacks against the country.
In his remarks from Tel Aviv, Blinken stated:
“The United States stands in absolute solidarity with the people of Israel in the face of these despicable attacks. And we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in support of Israel’s right to defend itself.”
Blinken also noted that the attacks were carried out by Hamas and other terrorist organizations, citing that the United States has already condemned those organizations:
“The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms these terrorist attacks. We condemn Hamas, other adjoining groups, and the states that support them. We make clear that ceasefire must be complete and permanent. And we are working diligently to restore it as soon as possible.”
The Secretary of State added that the US is engaged with other concerned parties to ensure that the conflict is brought to an end and that a lasting solution is found.
He also emphasized that the United States will continue to provide Israel with diplomatic, economic, and military assistance. This includes additional military and civilian support to the country’s Iron Dome missile defense system.
Following his remarks, Blinken went to Jerusalem to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Reuven Rivlin. During the visit, the two discussed a range of topics, including increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza, stabilizing the ceasefire, and ending the conflict.
At the end of the visit, Blinken said the US would remain “committed to doing its part to ensure Israel’s safety and security.” He added, “That commitment will never waver.”
The Secretary of State’s visit indicates the strong bond between the United States and Israel and the US’s commitment to stand by the country. With Blinken’s leadership and support, it is hoped that the two nations can work together towards a lasting solution that will bring an end to the conflict.