Blinken faces Arab anger as Gaza comes under fierce Israeli attack
As Israel's military operation against Hamas entered its fifth week, there were no signs of a let-up in the conflict, even as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confronted mounting anger during meetings with Arab foreign ministers.
Blinken reiterated the United States' support for 'humanitarian pauses' in the ongoing Gaza conflict, aimed at ensuring assistance reaches desperate civilians. However, this stance appeared to face resistance, as Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu showed limited interest in the idea.
Speaking at a press conference in Amman, where discussions revolved around safeguarding civilians and expediting aid deliveries, Blinken stated, 'The United States believes that all of these efforts will be facilitated by humanitarian pauses.'
Local media reported that Blinken sought to have the Arab foreign ministers characterize Israel's actions as 'self-defense.' This, however, met with strong opposition from the ministers, who instead reiterated their calls for an immediate ceasefire.
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi called upon all parties to collaborate in preventing a catastrophe that could have long-lasting repercussions on the region.
Israeli forces have continued to encircle Gaza's largest city, following weeks of an intense air campaign that has resulted in a high death toll, with over 9,488 Palestinians killed, including 3,900 children.
These attacks have triggered anti-Israel protests across the world and opposition from influential regional powers, such as Turkey, which recalled its ambassador from Israel on Saturday.
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