The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Israel. The Secretary reiterated U.S. support for Israel’s right to ensure the attacks of October 7 cannot be repeated. Secretary Blinken and Defense Minister Gallant discussed ongoing efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages and the need to significantly increase the levels of humanitarian assistance reaching civilians in Gaza. Secretary Blinken urged Israel to take all possible measures to avoid civilian harm, protect civilian infrastructure, and effectively deconflict Israeli operations to ensure the distribution of humanitarian assistance throughout all of Gaza. The Secretary also stressed the importance of preventing the conflict from spreading, including by avoiding escalation in Lebanon or the West Bank.
