The following information is from spokesman Matthew Miller:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Israeli Minister Benny Gantz. Minister Blinken and Minister Gantz discussed the latest efforts to release hostages and achieve a ceasefire as part of an agreement to prevent the conflict from spreading throughout the region. Minister Blinken reiterated the President’s position on a major operation in Rafah and emphasized the importance of increasing the level of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza. Minister Blinken also discussed the importance of concluding negotiations between Israel and Egypt to reopen the Rafah crossing as soon as possible. The Minister underscored the urgent need to protect civilians and aid workers in Gaza and to de-escalate tensions in the West Bank. The Minister also discussed the U.S. vision for lasting peace and security for Israel through further integration in the region and emphasized the importance to Israel’s security of planning for the post-conflict period in Gaza.
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