U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Friday that, despite Israel’s agreement to daily humanitarian pauses in its offensive in northern Gaza, “more needs to be done” to protect Palestinians. Speaking in New Delhi, Blinken expressed concern over the high number of Palestinian casualties and emphasized the importance of preventing harm while maximizing assistance to those affected.
The conflict in northern Gaza erupted following an attack by Hamas gunmen, prompting Israeli retaliation with aerial bombings and a ground offensive. Israeli officials reported 1,400 casualties and approximately 240 hostages seized, labeling it the country’s worst attack in history. In response, the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry reported over 10,800 casualties, including many children.
Recent developments include an Israeli strike on Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa, causing casualties and raising concerns about the ability to treat patients in the besieged area. The Israeli military accused Hamas of using hospitals as cover for attacks, a claim denied by Hamas authorities and medical professionals.
Blinken acknowledged some progress with Israel’s agreement to daily humanitarian pauses and the establishment of two humanitarian corridors. These measures, including four-hour daily pauses, aim to facilitate the movement of civilians away from conflict zones and enhance the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The U.N. human rights chief called for an investigation into what he labeled Israel’s “indiscriminate” bombardment in densely populated Gaza areas, expressing concerns about potential violations of international humanitarian law.
As tensions persist, Lebanon’s Hezbollah reported seven fighters killed by Israeli fire, underscoring the regional impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict. President Biden welcomed the daily pauses agreed upon by Israel, formalizing efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza.
Blinken’s remarks in New Delhi concluded his extensive diplomatic tour, addressing various global issues, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The international community continues to closely monitor developments in the region, seeking a path towards lasting peace and the protection of civilians caught in the crossfire.
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