US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to visit Israel, West Bank this week
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit Israel, the West Bank, Belgium, North Macedonia and UAE this week. It is Blinken's third visit to Israel since Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel on October 7.
During his visit to Israel and the West Bank, Blinken will discuss Israel's right to defend itself in accordance with international humanitarian law, continued efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages and protecting civilian life during Israel's counter-offensive against Hamas in Gaza. He will also discuss the principles he outlined in Tokyo on November 8, the US Department of State announced in a statement.
According to a statement released by the US Department of State, Blinken stated, «In Israel and the West Bank, Secretary Blinken will discuss Israel's right to defend itself consistent with international humanitarian law, as well as continued efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages, protect civilian life during Israel's operations in Gaza, and accelerate humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.
»The Secretary will also discuss the principles he outlined in Tokyo on November 8, tangible steps to further the creation of a future Palestinian state, and the need to prevent the conflict from widening," it added.
On Monday, Blinken expressed happiness over the release of hostages from Gaza, including a young American girl. He stated that US will continue to make efforts until all hostages are released.
Taking to X, he stated, «Good to see more hostages released today — including a young American girl who turned four just days ago. Our efforts will continue until all hostages are set free.»
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden on Monday welcomed the additional two-day truce
