Blinken Urges International Action Against Hamas and Protection of Civilians

Secretary of State Antony Blinken criticized other countries for not demanding that Hamas surrender and stop hiding behind civilians, stating that the conflict would end if Hamas laid down its arms. Blinken questioned why there were no demands made of the aggressor and only demands made of the victim. The United Nations Security Council continues to negotiate a resolution for a ceasefire, but the US has not yet supported it. Blinken emphasized that the conflict needs to shift to a lower-intensity phase with more targeted operations focused on dealing with Hamas leadership and the tunnel network. He acknowledged the suffering of civilians in Gaza and called for unity in demanding that Hamas take action to end the suffering.