During a press conference on Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated America’s staunch backing of Israel’s right to self-defense while urging increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and long-term efforts toward a two-state solution.
The visit, Blinken’s fourth since the major Hamas attack on October 7, came amid criticism that Israel’s military response has been disproportionate. However, Blinken defended its actions, citing disturbing footage of terrorist attacks on Israeli families.
Blinken pressed Israeli leaders on concrete steps to minimize civilian casualties in Gaza, calling it a legal and moral imperative, as well as strategically important to prevent extremism. He announced the U.S. aims to “substantially and immediately increase” humanitarian aid into Gaza, facilitated by temporary ceasefires.
While Blinken reported progress getting over 100 supply trucks daily through the Rafah crossing, he said it remains insufficient.
He vowed to urgently work with Israel, Egypt and the U.N. on expanding aid access while preventing diversion by Hamas. Blinken also prioritized evacuating U.S. citizens and wounded Palestinians from Gaza.
Looking ahead, Blinken stressed that lasting peace requires a two-state solution, calling it the only path to security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians.
He said the U.S. will focus on setting conditions for an enduring settlement, not just managing the conflict.
“It’s precisely now, in the darkest moments, that we have to fight hardest to preserve a path of stability, of security, of opportunity, of integration, of prosperity, and of peace,” Blinken concluded.
