Secretary of State Antony Blinken criticized Israel’s conduct of the war in Gaza, stating that Israeli tactics have led to a “horrible loss of life of innocent civilians” and failed to neutralize Hamas leaders and fighters. He expressed concern that the heavy action by Israeli forces could result in an enduring insurgency, with a reemergence of Hamas in parts of Gaza. Blinken emphasized that the United States believes Israeli forces should “get out of Gaza,” but is waiting to see credible plans from Israel for security and governance in the territory post-war. He highlighted the need for Israel to develop plans for security, governance, and rebuilding in Gaza to prevent Hamas from governing the region again.
Blinken warned that Israel’s military operations in Gaza, particularly in the city of Rafah, risk causing “terrible harm” to the civilian population without solving the underlying problem of preventing Hamas from governing Gaza in the future. He expressed concern that Israel’s conduct of the war could lead to an enduring insurgency or a vacuum filled by chaos and anarchy, potentially refilled by Hamas. Blinken urged Israel to consider a better way of achieving enduring security in Gaza and emphasized the importance of working with Arab countries and others to develop credible plans for the region.
In a televised interview, Blinken acknowledged a new report to Congress that found Israel’s use of U.S.-provided weapons in Gaza likely violated international humanitarian law. He cited concerns about incidents in which Israel’s actions resulted in the loss of innocent civilian lives, stating that certain actions were not consistent with international humanitarian law. The Biden administration has been working with Israel on addressing these concerns and seeking a more effective and lawful approach to the conflict in Gaza.
Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, raised concerns about a potential military ground operation in Rafah during a call with his Israeli counterpart, Tzachi Hanegbi. They discussed alternative courses of action to ensure the defeat of Hamas throughout Gaza. Hanegbi confirmed that Israel is taking U.S. concerns into account, signaling a willingness to collaborate on addressing the challenges posed by the conflict in Gaza. The U.S. and Israel are working together to find a solution that ensures lasting peace and security in the region.
The war in Gaza began on Oct. 7 after an attack by Hamas against Israel, leading to a significant loss of life and destruction. The conflict has taken a toll on civilians, with thousands of Palestinians killed and widespread damage to infrastructure. U.S. and U.N. officials have raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, including restrictions on food shipments that have led to famine. Tensions between the U.S. and Israel, as well as domestic debates about U.S. support for Israel, have intensified, with implications for future relations and outcomes in the region.
The issue of the conflict in Gaza, as well as the relationship between the U.S. and Israel, has become a topic of debate and concern for policymakers and the public. President Biden has indicated a commitment to addressing the humanitarian and security challenges in Gaza, while also highlighting the need for Israel to conduct its military operations in accordance with international law. The Biden administration is working with Israel and other stakeholders to find a sustainable solution to the conflict that ensures the safety and well-being of civilians in the region. The outcome of these diplomatic efforts could have significant implications for regional stability and future relations between the U.S. and Israel.
