U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that "what Hamas has done is horrific and constitutes terrorism, and Hamas's actions remind us of what ISIS did." During a press conference during his visit to Israel, Blinken stated, "We are shocked by the horrifying images coming from Israel, and more assistance is on its way to Israel." He added, "We welcome the formation of an Israeli emergency government and the strength it reflects, and we are working with regional countries to prevent the escalation."
He continued, "Hamas does not work for the benefit of Palestinians in Gaza and is usurping the resources of the sector. Those who want peace and justice must condemn Hamas and its acts of terrorism." Emphasizing that "the United States supports Israel and stands by it," Blinken explained, "We have sent an aircraft carrier and are bolstering our forces in the region and conducting strong diplomacy to prevent the expansion of the conflict."
Blinken stated, "At least 25 Americans have been killed in the attack launched by the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) against Israel." He added that Washington is working closely with Israel to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, concluding with, "The United States has Israel's back."
For his part, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the Hamas attack on Israel as a "barbaric war," pointing out that "the movement was celebrating its horrific acts," and affirming that "it will be punished."
Earlier today, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Tel Aviv as part of a broader tour in the Middle East, showing Washington's solidarity with Israel following an attack carried out by Hamas and seeking to calm the conflict. Blinken will also try to help secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas, some of whom are Americans, and facilitate a safe passage for civilians in Gaza ahead of a possible Israeli ground invasion of the sector.
Israeli Foreign Minister confirmed during the reception of Blinken that "Israel will not forget American support in its darkest days." A senior U.S. State Department official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity, stated that "Washington is working to advance discussions on providing safe passage for civilians, including Americans in Gaza."
He clarified that "there are between 500 to 600 American Palestinians living in Gaza; some want to leave... and we are working on organizing a safe corridor." He added that "the United States is in 'intensive' talks with the Israeli and Egyptian governments to help arrange this."
