DAVOS: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday called on Israel to assist rather than impede the Palestinian Authority, emphasizing that Israel’s long-term security was intricately linked to cooperative efforts.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Blinken renewed his call for a “pathway to a Palestinian state” while expressing support for Israel’s aggression in Gaza.
Highlighting the imperative nature of a strengthened Palestinian Authority, Blinken stressed that Israel’s support was essential for its effective operation. He underlined that even the most capable Authority would face challenges with active opposition from any Israeli government, and cooperation was crucial for genuine security.
Blinken Advocates for Transition of Gaza Control to Palestinian Authority
The United States has backed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s call to eliminate Hamas, the governing body in the Gaza Strip. However, Blinken advocated for the gradual transition of control in Gaza to the Palestinian Authority, led by Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank. Blinken urged Netanyahu to release tax revenue collected on behalf of the Palestinian Authority.
Addressing fundamental issues within the Palestinian Authority, such as corruption and transparency, Blinken asserted that these challenges required a partnership with Israel. While not directly commenting on Netanyahu’s government, Blinken posed a question about Israeli society’s readiness to engage in a two-state solution.
The ongoing Israeli bombardment in Gaza has resulted in a significant loss of lives. The Gaza health ministry reported that at least 24,448 Palestinians, mostly women, young children, and adolescents, were killed in Israeli bombardments and ground assaults.
