Blinken discusses 'hostage proposal', humanitarian assistance for Gaza in meeting with Netanyahu

Tel Aviv [Israel]: The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, who is on a visit to the Middle East, held discussions regarding the hostage proposal, and distribution of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza in a meeting with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday.

Commitment to Israel's Security

Blinken will travel to Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Qatar from June 10-12. "The Secretary underscored the United States' ironclad commitment to Israel's security, including through ensuring October 7 can never be repeated," the US State Department said.

Diplomatic Efforts for Long-Term Peace and Security

"The Secretary updated the prime minister on ongoing diplomatic efforts to plan for the post-conflict period, emphasizing the importance of those efforts to providing long-term peace, security, and stability to Israelis and Palestinians alike. Secretary Blinken also emphasized the importance of preventing the conflict from spreading," the State Department said.

Discussions on Israel's Ceasefire Proposal

Last week, Blinken spoke with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Israeli Minister Benny Gantz about Israel's proposal to achieve a full and complete ceasefire in Gaza.

Reuniting Hostages and Enhancing Long-Term Security

The US Secretary reiterated that, in addition to reuniting hostages with their loved ones, the proposal would advance Israel's long-term security interests, including by unlocking the possibility of calm along Israel's border with Lebanon that would allow Israelis to return to their home.

(With ANI Inputs)