Blinken calls Gallant to urge protection of Gazan civilians, more aid to territory

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (left) speaks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken outside the Kirya military HQ in Tel Aviv, January 9, 2024. (Elad Malka/ Defense Ministry)
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (left) speaks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken outside the Kirya military HQ in Tel Aviv, January 9, 2024. (Elad Malka/ Defense Ministry)

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant speaks on the phone with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken about the situation in Gaza, with the American top diplomat reiterating recent warnings against a major offensive in the city of Rafah.

According to a statement issued by State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken “underscored the urgent need to protect civilians and aid workers in Gaza,” urging Gallant to “ensure assistance can move into Gaza and help address distribution challenges inside of Gaza as Israel pursues Hamas targets.”

Blinken also “affirmed the ironclad US commitment to Israel’s security and the shared objective of the defeat of Hamas,” the statement says.

There is no immediate readout from Gallant’s office.

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