In a recent address, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the devastating toll that war has taken on civilians in Gaza, stating that the cost is "far too high." He called on Israel to remove barriers and allow more essential aid into the region. Speaking after a meeting with Israeli leaders during his fourth trip to the country since the conflict began, Blinken acknowledged the enormous challenge Israel faces in combating an enemy, Hamas, which has embedded itself within the civilian population.

During a press conference in Tel Aviv, Blinken emphasized that regional leaders share the United States' concerns about the dire humanitarian situation on the ground. Notably, he conveyed that Israel's neighbors have expressed a willingness to not only coexist with Israel but also integrate the region in a way that prioritizes the security of all parties involved. This renewed discussion of diplomatic normalization with Israel suggests a possible change in the relationship, although Blinken refrained from discussing Israel's potential stance on the matter. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously voiced opposition to such a state, citing security concerns.

The offensive in Gaza was launched by Israel in response to a cross-border assault by Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organization by Israel and many Western nations, including the US. The attacks during the conflict resulted in the deaths of 1,300 people. Disturbingly, since then, over 23,200 individuals – predominantly women and children – have been killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Responding to a query about whether Israel was de-escalating its military campaign, Blinken acknowledged that no party in the region, including the Israelis, desires an escalation of the conflict. However, there was no indication that Israel informed Blinken about winding down its military operations in the near future.

The situation in the region has been further complicated by increased rocket fire from Hezbollah, a Lebanon-based organization designated as a terrorist group by the US, into northern Israel. It is worth noting that Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Hamas are backed by Iran.

During his visit, Blinken was able to announce that the US and Israel had agreed on a plan for the United Nations to conduct an "assessment mission," which would be the initial step toward allowing Palestinians to return to the devastated areas of northern Gaza affected by the Israeli offensive. Nonetheless, he cautioned that their return would not happen immediately, as there is a great deal of work to be done, including clearing the area of unexploded ordinance and ensuring the necessary infrastructure is in place.

Addressing the claims filed at the International Court of Justice by South Africa alleging that Israel is committing genocide, Blinken dismissed them as "meritless." However, he expressed deep concern about the daily toll on civilians in Gaza, particularly on children. He stressed the urgent need for increased provisions of food, water, medicine, and other essential goods into Gaza, as well as ensuring their effective distribution to those in need.

The situation in Gaza remains a prominent focus for Blinken, who regularly consults with government lawyers over incidents related to the Israel-Gaza war. It is reported that more than 100 Israelis are still being held hostage in Gaza following the attacks on October 7th.

Meanwhile, questions have been raised regarding Israel's compliance with international law, specifically regarding accusations of turning off the water supply in Gaza. The UK Foreign Secretary has been asked to address these concerns, while the Saudi ambassador to the UK insists that any agreement reached must ultimately lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state.