US Secretary of State Warns Israel Against Ground Offensive in Gaza
In a forceful statement, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned Israel on Friday that a potential ground offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah could have dire consequences. Blinken expressed concern that such a move could lead to Israel facing increased isolation on the global stage and put its long-term security at risk.
Following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken’s remarks came in response to Netanyahu’s determination to proceed with military action, regardless of US backing. The top US diplomat disclosed that he had engaged in frank discussions with Netanyahu and the Israeli war cabinet, emphasizing that while the US supports Israel’s goal of defeating Hamas, a significant military incursion into Rafah is not the solution.
“It risks causing further civilian casualties and disrupting the delivery of humanitarian aid,” Blinken cautioned.
Blinken refrained from divulging specifics about the ongoing efforts to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages. — CNN
