Secretary of State Blinken arrived in Israel earlier today in a show of solidarity with the country following Hamas’ recent terrorist attacks. The visit comes after Hamas launched rockets at targets in southern and central Israel, killing one Israeli citizen and leaving many more injured. On the second day of their week-long trip, Blinken and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met to discuss bilateral relations and actions needed to ensure regional stability and safety.
Clearly, Prime Minister Netanyahu and Secretary Blinken approach the situation differently. Netanyahu announced plans to “gain a decisive victory” over the Gaza Strip’s Hamas government. Meanwhile, Blinken condemned violence on both sides but refrained from taking sides. Though the US Department of State acknowledges Israel’s right to self-defense, it is evident that Blinken’s mission is aimed at downplaying any potential escalation that might arise from Hamas’ actions.
Blinken’s presence is an obvious sign of support for Israel, a longstanding ally of the US. The US is also working to secure a ceasefire in order to prevent any further conflict, and in recent days the Biden administration has facilitated talks between Egypt, Israel, and the Hamas leadership in Gaza.
The peace talks, however, may not be easy as both sides are deeply entrenched in decades-long conflict. Yet, Secretary Blinken’s visit presents a major opportunity to secure a much-needed ceasefire. Although it is too early to determine whether his diplomatic mission will be successful, it is clear that this show of solidarity is Israel’s only hope of achieving peace in the near future.
