Antony Blinken spoke with Israeli Minister Benny Gantz to discuss recent efforts to reach a ceasefire as part of a deal to release hostages and prevent the conflict from spreading throughout the region.

The State Department said in a statement that the US Secretary of State reiterated President Joe Biden's position on an operation in Rafah and stressed the importance of increasing levels of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza.

Blinken also stressed the need for Israel and Egypt to conclude talks to reopen the Rafah crossing as soon as possible. Finally, the US Secretary of State underlined the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers in Gaza, as well as easing tensions in the West Bank.
(BalkanWeb)