On Monday, August 19, 2024, Israel’s Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant, welcomed U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to the Ministry of Defense headquarters in Tel Aviv. The two leaders engaged in a one-on-one meeting, which was followed by a broader bilateral discussion that included the IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi.
The discussions centered around the pressing security challenges in the Middle East, with a particular focus on the ongoing efforts to secure the return of hostages and dismantle the Hamas terrorist organization. Minister Gallant reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to continue military operations in Gaza until these objectives are met.
Gallant stressed the significance of Israel’s sustained military pressure on Hamas, highlighting the parallel need for continuous U.S. political pressure on the group to achieve a framework that would facilitate the hostages’ safe return to Israel.
At the start of the meeting, Gallant shared with Secretary Blinken a poignant photograph he keeps in his office, depicting 12 children who lost their lives in a Hezbollah attack on the northern town of Majdal Shams. This image served as a reminder of the heavy toll of terrorism and the importance of the ongoing fight against such threats.
Minister Gallant also expressed his deep appreciation for Secretary Blinken’s leadership and the unwavering support of the U.S. Administration in ensuring regional stability and maintaining Israel’s security. The meeting underscored the strong defense ties and shared objectives between Israel and the United States in addressing the complex security landscape of the region.–News Desk