Blinken advocates Palestinian control, opposes Gaza reoccupation

Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Israel and its allies must work towards a durable peace in Gaza, emphasizing that Gaza should not be reoccupied and should be run by Palestinians. The Biden administration is concerned about Israel's plans for post-conflict Gaza and wants to ensure the protection of Gazans. Blinken outlined key elements for peace, including no forcible displacement of Palestinians, no use of Gaza for terrorism, no reoccupation of Gaza, no blockade or siege, and no reduction in Gaza's territory. Israeli officials have backed off from Netanyahu's suggestion of an indefinite occupation of Gaza, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stating that it won't be Hamas or Israel that ultimately controls Gaza. The Group of Seven foreign ministers expressed support for humanitarian pauses and corridors, while also recognizing Israel's right to defend itself.