US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel, which has been carrying out attacks on Gaza for almost four weeks. This is Blinken’s third visit to Israel and the region since October 7.
Before leaving for Tel Aviv, Blinken said he was leaving for “more diplomacy during an incredibly challenging time.”
“We will continue to work with regional leaders to protect civilians and prevent the spread of conflict. We remain focused on two states and expanding peace and security in the region,” Blinken said.
Blinken is scheduled to meet with top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and will later visit Jordan.
His program includes efforts to free Israeli prisoners, increase humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave and prevent the spread of fighting in the region.
The Israeli military has expanded air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip, which has been under airstrikes since the Palestinian group Hamas launched a surprise offensive against Israel on October 7.
9,061 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip.
