Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in the Middle East working to solidify the ceasefire between the Israelis and Palestinians. CBS News reports:
Blinken, the highest-ranking U.S. official to visit the region since President Biden took office, told journalists after meeting Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu that Mr. Biden had sent him to reinforce America’s commitment to Israel’s security, to work for greater peace and stability in the region, and to address the urgent humanitarian needs and reconstruction in the Gaza Strip.
Reuters adds, “Blinken made clear that the United States intended to ensure that Hamas, which it regards as a terrorist organisation, did not benefit from the humanitarian aid – a potentially difficult task in an enclave over which it has a strong grip.”
Had a very good meeting with Israeli Prime Minister @Netanyahu today. I underscored America’s ironclad commitment to Israel’s security, and we discussed the importance of promoting peace, security, and dignity for all. https://t.co/z3qJbnwWSR pic.twitter.com/qog7mUKCrO
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) May 25, 2021
Netanyahu issued a series of statements after the meeting. He thanked the United States for “replenishments of Iron Dome interceptors that save civilian lives on both sides” and for the “strong statements against antisemitism.”
PM Netanyahu added: "Thank you and @POTUS @JoeBiden for your strong statements against antisemitism masquerading as anti-Zionism, but it's antisemitism. You took a bold position, a clear position, and we appreciate it. I think all decent people everywhere appreciate that stance." pic.twitter.com/MSAh5UzBd9
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) May 25, 2021
While the meeting was cordial and seemed to have a positive outcome, Netanyahu made it clear that the ceasefire is fragile:
“We too will give meaning to our commitment to our self-defense if Hamas breaks the calm and attacks Israel. Our response will be very powerful.”
“Whatever happens, Israel will always reserve the right to defend itself against a regime committed to our destruction, committed to getting the weapons of mass destruction for that end.”
Blinken is also set to meet with President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh of the Palestinian Authority today.
Secretary of State Anthony Blinken announces U.S. plans to give more than $360 million in "urgent support" to the Palestinian people, including $5.5 million in immediate disaster assistance for Gaza and $75 million for development and economic assistance https://t.co/Nj065CIsxp pic.twitter.com/H4oSQMixX7
— CBS News (@CBSNews) May 25, 2021
Watch remarks from Blinken and Netanyahu following their meeting above.