US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed concerns that an immediate ceasefire in Gaza could enable Hamas to regroup and plan further attacks against Israel. Speaking in Jordan after meeting with Arab leaders, Blinken emphasized that Israel must take “every possible measure” to minimize civilian casualties during its operations. However, Arab leaders, including Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, have called for an urgent ceasefire, accusing Israel of committing war crimes and stating that the violence against civilians cannot be justified.
Safadi described the ongoing conflict as
“a raging war that is killing civilians, destroying homes, hospitals, schools, mosques, and churches.”
He argued that this level of destruction won’t secure Israel’s safety or bring lasting peace to the Middle East.
While Blinken disagreed with some Arab leaders on the method to achieve regional stability, he stressed a shared commitment to seeking a better path forward. Blinken has advocated for humanitarian pauses in fighting to allow aid to reach Gaza. This differs from a full ceasefire, which the Biden administration believes could compromise Israel’s security.
Tensions have been rising, with regional actors like Hezbollah clashing with Israeli forces along Lebanon’s border. Blinken, who recently met with Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, also visited Israel to discuss the situation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu reiterated that a humanitarian pause would only be considered if hostages taken by Hamas on October 7 are released.
In addition, Blinken has been advocating for increased humanitarian aid through the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. Access to basic necessities has been severely limited, as Israel’s siege has cut off power, food, and water supplies to Gaza.
The escalating conflict has drawn the attention of global leaders, and Blinken’s regional diplomatic mission will continue with a planned visit to Turkey to discuss the crisis with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
