Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed confidence in the eventual victory of the ongoing conflict with the Palestinian Hamas group, despite the extended and costly nature of the conflict. He stated that the war would be a long one, with high costs, but the victory would be for Israel, the Jewish people, and the values of both countries.
Gallant also highlighted the significance of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s second visit to Israel and other high-ranking US officials’ visits. He emphasized that the US is a great ally and that senior officials of America are present every day in Israel. Blinken affirmed the US’s deep commitment to Israel’s right to defend itself and its people, stating that they always have the support of the US.
Blinken has visited several countries, including Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, to discuss the ongoing Israeli bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip. Over 1 million people, almost half of Gaza’s population, have been displaced, and the region is facing a humanitarian crisis with no electricity, water, food, fuel, and medical supplies running out.
Israel ordered a “full siege” on Gaza in retaliation for a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, which included rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel. Over 1,400 Israelis have been killed, and the Israeli military launched Operation Swords of Iron against Gaza, killing 2,808 people, including over 750 children.
