Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Israeli Defense Minister Gallant

The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. The Secretary and Defense Minister discussed ongoing efforts to de-escalate regional tensions. The Secretary reaffirmed the United States' ironclad commitment to Israel's security and discussed how continued escalation is in no party's interest. The Secretary reiterated the urgent need to reach an agreement on the ceasefire deal to secure the release of hostages, allow a surge of humanitarian assistance, and create the conditions for broader regional stability.