Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said in his press conference before leaving Israel on Tuesday that the United States will continue to do all that is possible to de-escalate tensions between Israel and the Palestinians.
Blinken further emphasized American determination to bring about a more prosperous and just middle east, saying the Jerusalem weekend attacks "underscored the challenges for regional security".
After concluding a meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah, Blinken said the U.S. opposes any move that is in opposition to the two-state solution, including settlement expansion, demolishing houses, and compromising the status quo at the holy sites revered by both Jews and Muslims, possibly hinting at National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's recent visit to the Temple Mount.
"In my meeting with the Israeli government, the Palestinian Authority, and partners in Cairo, I've heard deep concern about the current trajectory," Blinken said, "but also constructive ideas that each side can take to foster greater cooperation," he said.
"I've asked senior members of my team to stay on in the region and continue discussions on how these steps might actually be advanced, steps that the parties themselves must lean on. We have no illusions that heightened tensions can be diffused overnight, but we're prepared to support efforts here and with partners in the region," Blinken said.
"Over the longer term, we must do more than lower tensions. The United States is committed to working on our enduring goal of ensuring that Palestinians and Israelis enjoy equal measures of freedom. It is President Biden's firm conviction is that the only way to preserve that goal is to realize the division of two states for two peoples."
Blinken also discussed the war between Russia and Ukraine, saying Israel should increase assistance to Kyiv amid Iranian support for Russia. He also said Israel and the United States have a shared commitment to prevent a nuclear Iran and to stand together to prevent Iran's destabilizing actions in the region, including supplying drones to Russia with which Putin attacks Ukrainian cities.
Secretary Blinken and President Abbas give statements in Ramallah
(Footage: Reuters)
Blinken announced a Palestinian support package of $50 million to expand 4G internet support throughout Palestinian territories in the West Bank.
Palestinian President Abbas declared he was willing to work with the Americans to further the goal of dialogue with the Israeli government and called on Israel to end illegal actions that defy international law.
"The Palestinian people will stand forever accept Israeli occupation, and there will be no regional security as long as Palestinian demands are being ignored," Abbas said.