Washington, D.C. - US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, embarked on a diplomatic journey that spans continents, with his latest stops in Israel and upcoming participation in the 2+2 dialogue in India. His mission is to address the pressing issue of humanitarian aid to Gaza and to engage in discussions to minimize civilian harm during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Blinken's Visit to Israel: Antony Blinken's visit to Israel on Friday was primarily focused on the passage of humanitarian aid to Gaza. In the midst of the Israel-Hamas conflict, he emphasized the importance of minimizing harm to civilians in Gaza and stated his intention to seek concrete measures from Israel to protect them. While emphasizing empathy for Gaza's civilians, the United States reiterated its unwavering support for Israel in its efforts against Hamas. This visit coincided with President Joe Biden's call for humanitarian pauses in the conflict.

Blinken's Agenda in Israel: This marked Antony Blinken's second visit to Israel since the conflict began on October 7. Before departing for Israel, Blinken shared his agenda with reporters, saying, "We will be discussing tangible steps that can and should be taken to reduce harm to men, women, and children in Gaza. The United States is committed to this. When I see a Palestinian child – a boy or a girl – pulled from the rubble of a collapsed building, it affects me just as deeply as seeing a child in Israel or anywhere else." He emphasized the United States' obligation to respond to these tragic events. Unlike his previous visit, during which he voiced full support and increased military aid to Israel, this time, Blinken expressed empathy for the suffering of Palestinians in the conflict.

Beyond Israel: Upcoming Stops in Japan and South Korea

Antony Blinken's diplomatic journey continues beyond Israel, with scheduled visits to Japan and South Korea. These meetings will primarily focus on efforts to support a free and open Indo-Pacific region, reflecting the ongoing commitment of the United States to the region.

In Tokyo, Blinken will participate in the meeting of foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G-7) countries, set to take place on November 7 and 8. He is also scheduled to hold separate discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, addressing various global issues, including the Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and Indo-Pacific cooperation.

In South Korea, Blinken will meet with President Yoon Suk Yeol and South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin. These meetings will mark his first face-to-face talks with both leaders, underlining the United States' commitment to engaging with its partners in the region.
Blinken's Next Stop: 2+2 Dialogue in India

Following his visit to South Korea, Antony Blinken will journey to India from Seoul. On November 10, he will be in New Delhi, accompanied by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, to participate in the 2+2 Dialogue.

During this significant event, the US delegation will engage with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other Indian officials. The 2+2 Dialogue, initiated in 2018, has facilitated comprehensive discussions between India and the US on strategic and defense matters in previous meetings.

Israeli Troops Tighten Grip on Gaza City During Blinken's Visit

Antony Blinken and Lloyd Austin's Upcoming Visit to India for 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue