In an interview with Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Face the Nation, the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza was discussed, where thousands are fleeing the city of Rafah. The Biden administration supports Israel’s right to retaliate against Hamas for the October 7 attack that killed over 1,200 people. However, concerns have been raised about the Palestinian death toll, with Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledging that more civilians than Hamas members have been killed by Israeli forces. President Biden has expressed concerns about the civilian casualties in Gaza resulting from Israeli bombings, and has called for the protection of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Secretary Blinken emphasized that President Biden has been consistent in supporting Israel’s defense while also insisting on the protection of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian assistance. A report released by the US raised concerns about incidents where Israel may have acted in ways not consistent with international humanitarian law, particularly in the early months after the October 7 attack. Israel has accountability processes in place to address these concerns, with ongoing inquiries and criminal investigations into incidents.
Regarding the delivery of weapons to Israel, Secretary Blinken clarified that the US has delayed the delivery of high payload bombs due to concerns about their impact on densely populated areas like Rafah. President Biden has been clear that certain systems will not be supplied if Israel launches a major military operation without a credible plan to protect civilians. The US is also working on developing plans for security, governance, and rebuilding in Gaza to prevent Hamas from regaining control.
The interview also touched on the situation in Ukraine, where Russia has increased troop levels and made a push into Kharkiv. Secretary Blinken acknowledged that the delay in delivering weapons to Ukraine has had a cost, but efforts are being made to rush assistance to the country. The US and European allies are supporting Ukraine in holding the line against Russian aggression and pressing advantages in the Black Sea. Secretary Blinken emphasized that Ukraine has the support of over 50 countries and will continue to resist Russian aggression.
In conclusion, Secretary Blinken reiterated the US commitment to supporting Israel’s defense while also advocating for the protection of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid. The US is working on plans for the post-conflict situation in Gaza and is rushing assistance to Ukraine to counter Russian aggression. The interview highlighted the complex challenges facing the Biden administration in navigating diplomatic relations in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
