Secretary Antony J. Blinken, in an interview with Margaret Brennan of CBS’s Face the Nation, discussed the complexities and challenges of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Brennan questioned Secretary Blinken on President Biden's past statements regarding Israel's military actions and the potential pause in delivery of 3,500 bombs to Israel.
President Biden had previously stated that civilians have been killed in Gaza as a consequence of these bombs and other means targeting population centers. He made it clear that if Israel were to go into Rafah, he would not supply the weapons historically used to deal with such situations.
When asked whether Israel was upholding international humanitarian law standards, Secretary Blinken expressed concerns about incidents where damage to children, women, and men suggested that Israel acted inconsistently with international humanitarian law. He also noted that Israel has accountability processes and ongoing inquiries looking into different incidents since October 7th.
Brennan further questioned whether Israel had violated U.S. laws and weapons-sharing agreements. Secretary Blinken clarified that while it is difficult to determine what happened during war, particularly when dealing with an enemy like Hamas that hides behind civilians, there are several incidents under investigation. He confirmed that assessments are ongoing but based on civilian suffering seen so far, it is reasonable to assess that Israel has not acted consistently with international humanitarian law in some instances.
On policy matters concerning weapon delivery to Israel, Secretary Blinken explained that they cannot support a major military operation in Rafah without a credible plan to protect civilians - a plan they have yet to see from Israel. Despite this, no pause has been placed on the delivery of any weapons beyond the 3,500 bombs mentioned earlier.
In conclusion, Secretary Blinken emphasized the need for credible plans for security, governance, rebuilding post-conflict Gaza and preventing Hamas from governing again. He acknowledged a shared objective with Israel but highlighted differences in approach towards achieving it.
The interview concluded with Brennan quoting from a National Security Memorandum signed by Secretary Blinken, stating that Israeli civilian harm mitigation efforts are "inconsistent, ineffective, and inadequate." When asked whether the U.S. shares the Israeli assessment that more civilians have been killed than actual terrorists, Secretary Blinken confirmed they do.
