U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday to facilitate increased aid delivery to Gaza amidst escalating tensions between the allies over the ongoing six-month war.
During a five-day operation in Gaza’s Al Shifa hospital complex, Israel reported the killing or apprehension of hundreds of Hamas fighters. However, Hamas and medical personnel dispute these claims, asserting the absence of combatants at the facility.
Blinken embarking on his sixth visit to the Middle East since the conflict’s commencement on October 7, intensified diplomatic efforts upon his arrival in the region on Wednesday.
His itinerary included meetings with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia and discussions with foreign ministers and officials from Arab nations in Cairo on Thursday. Talks in Doha aimed to broker a ceasefire persisted.
The meeting with Netanyahu, following a forty-minute private session, was marked by Blinken’s emphasis on addressing the widening gap between the United States and Israel. Discussions were held with the Israeli war cabinet.
Highlighting the urgent need for increased aid access to Gaza, Blinken underscored the looming threat of famine, as per United Nations warnings.
The U.S. diplomat’s statements coincide with the ongoing conflict triggered by a Hamas incursion into southern Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages, according to Israeli accounts.
As efforts to mitigate the crisis continue, discussions in Washington between senior Israeli and U.S. officials next week are anticipated. The U.S. will present alternative strategies to target Hamas without resorting to extensive military operations, which risk civilian casualties.
Amidst ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire, fighting has intensified in Gaza’s Al Shifa hospital complex. Israel asserts its military actions are targeting Hamas elements within the compound, while Hamas refutes these claims, asserting civilian casualties and denying the presence of fighters.