US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Thursday that the congressional administration is working to make sure Israel's growing defense needs are met, explaining that he came to Israel not only as US secretary of state, but as "a Jew whose grandfather fled murder."
In his solidarity visit to Israel after the surprise "Al-Aqsa Flood" operation carried out by the Palestinian resistance, Blinken added that his visit carries a message that they will always be on the side of the Israelis, and do not have to defend themselves alone, he said.
Blinken stressed that Washington is working with Israel to secure the release of their captives from the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), saying that America understands that Hamas "does not represent the Palestinian people, nor their legitimate aspirations to live in freedom and security."
While US President Joe Biden pledged full support for Israel, without calling for restraint, Blinken hinted at the need for an eventual peace settlement.
Blinken said at least 25 Americans were confirmed among those killed in Saturday's military operation.
Blinken noted the importance of taking every possible precautionary measure to avoid harming civilians.
The US Secretary of State arrived in Tel Aviv today, was received by his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen, and delivered his speech accompanied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
After his speech, Blinken participated in a meeting of Israel's "war" council, according to Israel's Channel 12, after Israel formed an emergency government.