Blinken Calls Gallant, Opposes Rafah Campaign

Blinken Calls Gallant, Opposes Rafah Campaign

In a recent phone conversation, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant discussed the tense situation in the Gaza Strip. Blinken expressed the United States' commitment to Israel's security and the shared goal of defeating Hamas. However, he also conveyed America's opposition to Israel's proposed major military operation in the city of Rafah, emphasizing the urgent need to protect civilians, aid workers, and ensure the distribution of humanitarian aid. The Rafah crossing, critical for aid entry and medical treatment, remains closed as Israel maintains its operations against Hamas.

The discussions between Blinken and Gallant also touched on ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages. Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 35,000, and the city of Rafah has become a critical refuge for the inhabitants of the Strip. Amid these developments, the Israeli military has moved tanks deeper into the Jabalia refugee camp, underscoring the escalation of conflict in the region. Concurrently, Israel marked Memorial Day with a national moment of remembrance, and a new humanitarian aid crossing, "Western Erez," was opened into Gaza, reflecting coordination efforts between US and Israeli officials.

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