United States (US) has emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza that would ensure the release of hostages, allow for increased humanitarian aid, and create the necessary conditions for broader regional stability.
The US State Department stated in a release on Saturday that this was discussed during a phone call between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
According to the statement, both sides discussed ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.
Blinken reaffirmed the United States' strong commitment to Israel's security, emphasizing that escalation would not benefit any party. He also underscored the importance of reaching a diplomatic solution that would allow Israeli and Lebanese families to return to their homes.