Blinken: Iran and Israel should not escalate conflict
Iran had threatened retaliation after the deadly strike attributed to Israel that killed Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. Israel has not commented on Haniyeh's killing, but Tehran holds it responsible.
Secretary of State Blinken stated that U.S. support for Israel's security is steadfast. "We will continue to defend Israel against attacks from terrorist groups, just as we will defend our troops," he said. "But everyone in the region should understand that further attacks will only maintain the conflict, instability, and insecurity for all."
The U.S. is working intensively to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and prevent the conflict from spreading. "Further attacks only increase the risk of dangerous consequences that no one can predict or fully control," said Blinken. He called on all parties in the region to understand the risk of miscalculation and make decisions that ease tensions, not escalate them.
Blinken also called on the new Hamas chief, Sinwar, to accept a ceasefire in Gaza. Sinwar is the key decision-maker regarding the conclusion of a ceasefire.
The U.S., along with Qatar and Egypt, is mediating efforts to end the fighting between Israel and the Islamic Hamas. So far, only a one-week ceasefire was achieved last November, which also saw the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
The escalation of the situation could lead to unforeseen consequences, as Secretary Blinken cautioned. Tehran may perceive the deadly strike as a justification for an escalation of their own retaliation efforts.
