Blinken Urges Israel to Prioritize Civilian Protection in Potential War

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Israel should not resume operations against Hamas without a clear plan to protect civilians in the Gaza Strip. Blinken emphasized the need for humanitarian civilian protection plans that minimize casualties among innocent Palestinians. He also stated that the US will continue to support Israel, but assistance is conditional on compliance with international humanitarian law. Israel has been under pressure not to renew its offensive after the ceasefire, but Netanyahu reiterated his intention to eliminate Hamas. The release of hostages by Hamas is slowly underway during the truce.