Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the goal of "crushing Hamas" remains unchanged, citing the atrocities committed by the group on October 7. Netanyahu emphasized that the recent temporary truce does not imply imminent long-term peace, asserting a commitment to eliminating Hamas.
In a social media statement, Netanyahu underscored the ongoing threat posed by Hamas, stating, "It is the same Hamas that perpetrated the terrible massacre on October 7, and the same Hamas that is trying to murder us everywhere." He reiterated his determination to eliminate the group, emphasizing that nothing would deter this pursuit.
The meeting between Netanyahu and Blinken occurred shortly after militants carried out a shooting rampage in Jerusalem, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. Blinken, during his visit to Jerusalem, met with Netanyahu and the Israeli War Cabinet, reaffirming the United States' unwavering support for Israel's right to self-defense within the bounds of international humanitarian law. He urged Israel to minimize harm to civilians.
The Biden administration has consistently supported Israel in response to the offensive into the Gaza Strip initiated following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Blinken and Netanyahu discussed efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages and the urgent need for accelerated humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza. The State Department's statement emphasized the imperative of addressing humanitarian and civilian protection needs in southern Gaza before any military operations.
Blinken also called for immediate measures to hold extremist Israeli settlers accountable for violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. The discussions reflect the complex dynamics and challenges in the region, with both the US and Israel navigating efforts to address security concerns and humanitarian issues.
(With Agency Inputs)
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