In a news conference held in Jerusalem, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed deep concern over the high civilian death toll in Gaza, particularly among children. He urged for aid to be effectively delivered to the besieged strip and emphasized the need to prevent further civilian losses and halt the escalation of the conflict in the wider region.

Blinken, on his fourth visit to the Middle East since the conflict began, affirmed the United States' support for Israel's mission to prevent a recurrence of the events of October 7. However, he underscored the importance of ensuring the safety of civilians in Gaza. The US diplomat acknowledged the steps taken by Israel to facilitate the delivery of aid to the population of Gaza, including the opening of the Kerem Shalom border crossing.

Regarding the reconstruction and stabilization of Gaza after the war, Blinken highlighted that countries in the region expressed readiness to contribute to the efforts. However, he emphasized that any agreement must address Palestinian political aspirations for statehood. Blinken described the present moment as a "powerful opportunity," urging all parties to work together towards the realization of a Palestinian political state.

Blinken also called on Israel to cease actions that undermine the Palestinians' ability to govern themselves effectively. He specifically mentioned settler violence, settlement expansion, demolitions, and evictions as hindrances to lasting peace.

Furthermore, the US official reiterated Washington's rejection of any plans for the permanent displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. He emphasized the desire to see people return home as soon as conditions allow. A UN assessment mission has been agreed upon to evaluate the suitability of conditions for residents to move back to northern Gaza.

When asked about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's stance on a two-state solution and a diplomatic resolution, Blinken did not provide a direct response, stating that he could not speak on behalf of Tel Aviv. Analysts noted that this was due to Netanyahu's disagreement and lack of support for a two-state solution.

The conflict, which began on October 7, saw an initial attack by Hamas on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,139 people, according to Israeli authorities. Israel launched a devastating bombardment and ground invasion of Gaza in response, leading to the destruction of a significant portion of the territory and the deaths of over 23,200 people, predominantly women and children, according to Palestinian officials.

Blinken pointed out that the war could have ended on October 8 had Hamas relinquished their weapons and released the hostages held. Currently, around 132 individuals are still being held captive by Palestinian armed groups in Gaza, while 25 have died in captivity.

Earlier in the day, Blinken met with Prime Minister Netanyahu, emphasizing the importance of avoiding further harm to civilians and protecting civilian infrastructure in Gaza. He expressed hope that Israel would continue its efforts towards regional integration following its recent normalization deals with the UAE and other countries.

Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, stressed to Blinken the critical need to increase pressure on Iran as a means to prevent a wider regional escalation.

Tensions remain high on the Israel-Lebanon border as both the Israeli army and the Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah exchanged fire. Blinken, during his visit to Jordan, expressed genuine concern over the situation along the Lebanese border, heightening fears of a potential wider regional conflict.