US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Israel to present a civilian protection plan before undertaking any military operations in the Palestinian Rafah, stating, "which we have yet to see."
During a press conference broadcasted by Cairo News Channel, Blinken highlighted the challenges of conducting a military operation in Rafah, home to 1.4 million people. He emphasized Washington's desire for an end to violence, ensuring full protection for Gaza's civilians and providing them with necessary aid.
Blinken pointed out that the absence of security and law poses significant challenges to delivering aid to Gaza. He stressed the need for coordination between Israel and various countries to facilitate sea entry of aid to the Gaza Strip, adding, "We are intensely working with our partners to protect civilians in Gaza."
The US Secretary of State remarked that aid delivery and civilian protection in Gaza are among Washington's top priorities. "The best way to deliver aid to Gaza is through a ceasefire. Restrictions must be eased to ensure aid reaches those in need in Gaza. We are in continuous coordination with Egypt and Qatar to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza," he stated.
Blinken further explained, "A maritime corridor for aid would allow us to distribute two million meals daily. Establishing a sea passage for aid into Gaza will take time, hence our pursuit of an immediate ceasefire. We are committed to ensuring aid reaches Gaza's residents, and Israel must allow more aid to reach the people. We have provided additional food aid to the residents of the Gaza Strip."
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