Blinken tells Gantz that Israel must take 'all possible measures' to avoid civilian harm

By Iclal Turan

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz on Monday to take “affirmative steps” to de-escalate tensions in the West Bank while also reiterating that Israel must take "all possible measures" to avoid civilian harm.

In a phone call, Blinken and Gantz discussed ongoing efforts to facilitate the safe return of all remaining hostages, further increase levels of humanitarian assistance, and prevent the conflict from expanding, according to a statement by State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

"Secretary Blinken emphasized that the United States remains committed to advancing tangible steps towards the realization of a Palestinian state," Miller added.

The call came after Blinken said last week that there remains a gap between Israel’s intent to protect civilians and results on the ground in Gaza.

Israel resumed its military offensive on the Gaza Strip on Dec. 1 after the end of a week-long humanitarian pause with the Palestinian group Hamas.

At least 18,205 Palestinians have been killed and more than 49,645 others injured in relentless air and ground attacks on the enclave since Oct. 7 following a cross-border attack by Hamas.

The Israeli death toll in the Hamas attack stood at 1,200, according to official figures.