Blinken urges Israel-Arab normalization, Palestinian state

A handout image provided by the United Arab Emirates News Agency (WAM) on March 28, 2022, shows US Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaking during the Negev summit in the Israeli kibbutz of Sde Boke
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. (File photo: Jordan News)
MUNICH — On Saturday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked that Israel finds itself in an “exceptional opportunity” over the next few months to normalize relations with its Arab neighbors. He also emphasized the importance of establishing a Palestinian state. These statements were made during a discussion panel at the Munich Security Conference, as per Reuters.اضافة اعلان

Blinken underscored the real efforts being made by Arab nations to bolster the Palestinian Authority, thereby rendering it more capable of representing the Palestinians effectively. “Nearly all Arab countries are earnestly seeking to integrate Israel into the region, normalize relations, and offer security commitments and guarantees to enhance Israel's sense of security,” Blinken stated.

Additionally, Blinken highlighted the urgent need to advance toward establishing a Palestinian state, emphasizing that doing so would ensure Israel's security. He noted genuine attempts by Arab nations to reform the Palestinian Authority.

Furthermore, Blinken held a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog during the Munich Security Conference. He reiterated Israel's right to prevent the recurrence of the October 7 attacks, according to a statement issued by the US State Department. Discussions between Blinken and Herzog centered on ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages and to negotiate a humanitarian truce aimed at facilitating increased humanitarian aid flow to Palestinians residing in Gaza.

Blinken made it clear that the US cannot support a ground military operation in Rafah unless there is a credible and implementable plan to safeguard the safety of more than a million people currently seeking refuge there. Blinken also stressed the necessity for all parties involved to take measures to protect civilian lives and prevent the conflict's escalation. He underscored the United States' commitment to achieving lasting peace in the region, including through the establishment of a Palestinian state while simultaneously ensuring Israel's security.


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