Hamas: We are behind you – US tells Israel as Blinken meets Netanyahu

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a crucial meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday morning, entering the sixth day of Israel’s conflict with the Hamas terror group in the Gaza Strip.

Blinken reaffirmed unwavering support for Israel during the discussions, emphasizing the United States’ commitment to stand by the Israeli people.

“We are here, we are not going anywhere,” Blinken assured Netanyahu at the onset of the meeting. Blinken’s agenda also includes meetings with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and other top officials. In addition, he is slated to meet with Palestinian Authority chief Mahmoud Abbas during his visit to neighboring Jordan on Friday.

In a statement before departing, Blinken expressed that his visit to Israel aimed to deliver a clear message on behalf of the United States, underlining their steadfast support for Israel. He stated, “We have the back of the Israeli people. We have their back today, we’ll have it tomorrow. We will have it every day.”

Blinken conveyed condolences for the victims of the recent terrorist attacks in Israel, condemning these acts strongly. The U.S. State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller, explained that the secretary’s visit would involve reiterating condolences and condemnation, as well as discussing measures to enhance Israel’s security and emphasizing the U.S.’s support for Israel’s right to defend itself.

The United States is actively working to ensure that Israel has all necessary resources to protect its people and maintain its security.