Blinken stresses need for Palestinian state for Israel's security
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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggested that genuine regional integration in favour of Israel is unlikely without a Palestinian state, emphasizing the need for a 'pathway to a Palestinian state.
In an address at the World Economic Forum in Davos Blinken highlighted the shifting mindset among leaders in the Arab and Muslim world, expressing increased openness to integrating Israel into the region.
While acknowledging the profound opportunity for regionalization in the Middle East, Blinken questioned whether Israeli society is prepared to engage in such discussions. He underscored that genuine integration and security for Israel are contingent on the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Addressing concerns over the opposition from Israel's right-wing government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been vocal against Palestinian statehood, Blinken emphasized the need for a stronger, reformed Palestinian Authority that collaborates with Israel rather than opposing it.
The Secretary of State pointed out that a unified region with a Palestinian state would help isolate Iran and its proxies, including Yemen's Houthi militia, responsible for attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. However, Blinken stressed that the Palestinian Authority needs to be effective, transparent, and free of corruption, operating with the assistance of Israel.
Responding to a question about the recent conflict in Gaza, Blinken expressed deep concern over the suffering of innocent civilians, describing the scenes as "gut-wrenching." He noted the devastation caused by the latest war initiated by Israel in response to attacks by the militant group Hamas. The conflict has resulted in the loss of more than 24,000 Palestinian lives, with over 61,000 injuries and widespread destruction, leaving the majority of Gaza in ruins and pushing the population to the brink of famine.
Blinken concluded by stating that it is now up to the Israelis to decide whether they can seize the opportunity for regional integration and address the pressing issues at hand, emphasizing that the suffering in Gaza demands urgent action and a collective effort to find a resolution.