US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Monday to discuss the escalating conflict in Gaza and the potential for further spread of violence. The meeting, which lasted for more than two hours, focused on the importance of halting the conflict and finding a diplomatic solution to allow both Israeli and Lebanese families to return to their homes.
Blinken emphasized the need to avoid further escalation and highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts to advance security, governance, and reconstruction in Gaza post-conflict. He stressed the significance of this work in ensuring Israel's security and updating Minister Gallant on these efforts.
The discussions also touched on efforts to secure a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. Blinken underscored the necessity of protecting humanitarian workers in Gaza and ensuring the delivery of assistance throughout the region in close coordination with the United Nations.
The meeting comes amid concerns of a potential escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, prompting the US to push for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Both parties are working towards finding common ground and preventing further violence in the region.
