Blinken says several nations could play interim role in post-war Gaza security

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that several countries could potentially assist in providing security and governance in a post-war Gaza Strip.

"I believe a number of countries could play an instrumental role in at least on an interim basis, if necessary, helping to provide security, helping to provide governance or governance could be a coalition of people," Blinken said before a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on a budget request.

Blinken was responding to a question on if believed Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have the capability or have the will to run Gaza.

He underscored the humanitarian crisis faced by residents in Gaza, including women and men, saying: "Food, water, medicine, and shelter all remain in far too short supply."

Blinken said the Biden administration is doing everything "to bring to an end the terrible human suffering in Gaza and prevent the conflict spreading."

He also believes military occupation of Gaza is not sustainable.

Meanwhile, Blinken was protested by pro-Palestine demonstrators on the US' policy regarding the onslaught in Gaza. "Shame on you," one protester shouted.

Earlier, he faced protests during his testimony at a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing.

Israel has killed more than 35,500 Palestinians in Gaza since an Oct. 7 cross-border incursion by Hamas that claimed less than 1,200 lives. Air and ground attacks have reduced the Palestinian enclave to rubble, leading to mass internal displacement and a shortage of necessities.

It also triggered a trial at the International Court of Justice, which in January ordered Tel Aviv to ensure that its forces do not commit acts of genocide and take measures to guarantee humanitarian assistance is provided to civilians in Gaza.