Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog today. Secretary Blinken expressed condolences for those killed in the village of Majdal Shams in the attack by Lebanese Hezbollah and wished a speedy recovery for those injured. The Secretary reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iranian-backed terrorist organizations, including Hezbollah. He emphasized the importance of preventing escalation of the conflict and discussed efforts to reach a diplomatic solution to allow citizens on both sides of the border between Israel and Lebanon to return home.
Secretary Blinken and President Herzog also discussed ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of hostages. The Secretary underscored the U.S. commitment to securing lasting peace and stability in the region.
