Blinken Urges Gaza Ceasefire Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need for a Gaza ceasefire in a call with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Escalating violence in the Middle East, partly due to recent high-profile killings, is raising fears of a broader conflict. Blinken reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel while urging de-escalation.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the urgent need for a Gaza ceasefire during a phone call with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Friday. Blinken highlighted that escalating tensions in the Middle East serve no party's interests, urging efforts to halt the violence.

The request follows recent high-profile killings that have heightened the risk of a broader regional war. The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut has sparked intense retaliation threats against Israel.

Blinken reiterated the United States' unwavering support for Israel's security while stressing the importance of de-escalating hostilities. The call follows President Joe Biden's three-phase ceasefire proposal aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict and securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.

(With inputs from agencies.)