UPDATE - US secretary of state arrives in Israel as fighting in Gaza rages on

UPDATES WITH STATEMENT FROM US SECRETARY OF STATE; REVISES DECK

By Abdelraouf Arna'out and Zehra Nur Duz

JERUSALEM / US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday arrived in Israel, which has continued its air and ground attacks on Gaza for nearly four weeks.

It is Blinken's third visit to Israel and the region since the Oct. 7 surprise offensive by Hamas.

“Returned to Israel for meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and other government leaders,” he said on X.

During the visit, Blinken said he will discuss “Israel’s right to defend itself” and US’ ongoing work to provide humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.

Before setting off for Tel Aviv, Blinken said he was leaving for "more diplomacy during an incredibly challenging time."

"We will continue to work with regional leaders to protect civilians and prevent the spread of conflict. We remain focused on two states and broader peace and security in the region," he said.

Blinken is also scheduled to visit Jordan following his talks in Israel.

His agenda includes efforts to release Israeli hostages, increase of relief aid into the besieged enclave, and to prevent expansion of the fighting in the region.

Over 10,500 people have been killed in the conflict, including at least 9,061 Palestinians and more than 1,500 Israelis.

Besides the casualties and displacement, basic supplies such as food, water, medicines and fuel are running low for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents due to the Israeli siege.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar