During a high-stakes meeting in Tel Aviv, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed profound concerns to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his war cabinet regarding Israel's security and global standing. Axios news website, citing a reliable source familiar with the meeting, reported that Blinken underscored the critical necessity for a coherent post-war strategy for Gaza, cautioning Israeli leaders of potential dire consequences if such a plan remains elusive.
"Without a clear and comprehensive plan, you risk being ensnared in Gaza," Blinken reportedly emphasized, warning that the consequences may not become evident until it's too late. The Secretary of State further emphasized that the current trajectory could perpetuate Hamas' grip on Gaza or plunge the region into anarchy, fostering conditions conducive to increased terrorism.
According to Axios, Prime Minister Netanyahu responded by acknowledging the gravity of the situation, stating, "We will have our hands full for decades."
Requests for comment from the State Department and Netanyahu's office regarding the Tel Aviv meeting went unanswered at the time of reporting.
Blinken's visit to Israel, following his stop in Egypt, marks the third leg of his sixth Middle East tour since October 7th. The focal point of his discussions revolves around facilitating a hostage swap deal between Israel and Hamas, establishing a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, and addressing concerns surrounding the Israeli military's ground incursion in Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip.
Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas are currently underway in Doha, facilitated by Qatar and Egypt, with US involvement, aimed at brokering a ceasefire and facilitating a hostage exchange.
Since the cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7th, which claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 Israelis, Israel has launched a deadly military offensive in the Gaza Strip. The toll on the Palestinian side has been devastating, with nearly 32,000 casualties, predominantly women and children, and over 74,000 injuries amid widespread destruction and shortages of essential supplies.
The relentless Israeli offensive has triggered internal displacement for 85% of Gaza's population, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis already compounded by a severe blockade on vital resources. The UN reports that 60% of Gaza's infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic intervention to alleviate the suffering and pave the way for lasting peace in the region.
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