Blinken urges Israel to leverage Hamas leader Sinwar’s killing for ‘lasting security’

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israel to “capitalize” on the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar to secure long-term safety for both Israelis and Palestinians, according to a State Department statement released Tuesday.

Blinken’s comments came during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem.

“The Secretary underscored the need to capitalize on Israel’s successful action to bring Yahya Sinwar to justice by securing the release of all hostages and ending the conflict in Gaza in a manner that provides lasting security for both Israelis and Palestinians,” spokesman Matthew Miller said.

He highlighted the importance of establishing a new path forward in the post-conflict period, one that allows Palestinians to rebuild their lives and ensures governance, security, and reconstruction for Gaza.

Miller also emphasized Blinken’s call for Israel to take further steps to increase and sustain the flow of humanitarian assistance into the Gaza Strip, ensuring that aid reaches civilians throughout the enclave.

Need for diplomatic resolution in Lebanon

The two men also discussed Lebanon and the need for a diplomatic resolution along the Israel-Lebanon border, or Blue Line, which includes full implementation of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701 and enabling civilians on both sides to return to their homes.

“They discussed the need to deter further regional aggression from Iran and its proxies, including ongoing efforts by the United States and its partners. The Secretary reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s security,” the statement said.

Blinken arrived in Israel earlier Tuesday as part of a regional tour aimed at reviving cease-fire talks between Tel Aviv and Hamas.

This marks Blinken’s 11th trip to the region since the conflict escalated on Oct. 7, 2023. His discussions will cover Gaza, the Lebanon conflict, and Israel’s potential response to Iran’s missile attack on Oct. 1.