Antony J. Blinken met with Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer in Washington. They reviewed the steps Israel has taken to improve the dire humanitarian situation inside Gaza in response to a letter sent by Blinken and Defense Secretary Austin on October 13.
The Minister reported on operational changes made by the Israel Defense Forces and COGAT and on policy decisions taken by the Israeli government to address the actions contained in the letter. The Minister stressed the importance of ensuring that these changes lead to a real improvement in the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, including through the provision of additional assistance to the civilian population throughout Gaza. The Minister further reiterated the importance of Israel taking all possible steps to minimize damage to the civilian population.
The Minister also stressed the importance of ending the war in Gaza and returning all hostages home. He reiterated that charting a way forward in the post-conflict period that ensures governance, security and reconstruction is the only way to ensure lasting peace and stability for Israelis and Palestinians.
They also discussed continued efforts to reach a diplomatic solution in Lebanon that will allow Lebanese and Israeli civilians to return safely to their homes. The Secretary reaffirmed the United States' unwavering commitment to Israel's security against threats from Iran and Iranian-backed proxy groups.
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