The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke yesterday with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Secretary Blinken and Defense Minister Gallant discussed active efforts to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages and increase levels of humanitarian assistance reaching Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Secretary Blinken stressed the importance of measures to prevent the conflict from expanding, including affirmative steps to de-escalate tensions in the West Bank and to avoid escalation in Lebanon. Secretary Blinken reiterated that Israel must take all possible measures to avoid harm to civilians and underscored the U.S. commitment to promoting tangible steps toward the realization of a future Palestinian state.
