US sends direct message to both Iran and Israel
Aug 07, 2024
Washington [US], August 7: "This conflict should not be escalated. We have engaged in robust diplomacy with our allies and partners, communicating that message directly to Iran . We have communicated that message directly to Israel," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.
Iran has vowed to retaliate after Israel allegedly killed Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the capital Tehran on July 31.
US President Joe Biden has hinted at frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the assassination of a Hamas political leader, which came just as he hoped to make progress in talks to secure a ceasefire in the 10-month-old Hamas-Israel conflict in the Gaza Strip.
"Our commitment to Israel's security is absolute. We will continue to defend Israel against attacks by terrorist groups or their sponsors, just as we will continue to protect our troops," Mr. Blinken emphasized.
"But parties in the region should understand that further attacks only prolong conflict, instability, and insecurity for everyone," Mr. Blinken said.
Mr. Blinken added that the US is making every effort to reduce tensions in the Middle East and prevent the conflict from spreading.
Earlier in the day, Mr. Blinken had a phone call with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi. Jordan played a key role in the previous confrontation in April when it helped the US shoot down Iranian missiles and drones, ensuring minimal damage in Israel, according to AFP. Mr. Safadi arrived in Tehran on August 4 to discuss the regional situation.
Secretary of State Blinken declined to answer directly whether Jordan would continue to support action against an Iranian attack, saying only that US partners wanted to end the conflict.
"Further attacks only increase the risk of dangerous consequences that no one can predict and no one can fully control. It is imperative that everyone in the region assess the situation, understand the risk of miscalculation, and make decisions that help ease tensions, not exacerbate them," Mr. Blinken emphasized.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
