The United States Secretary, Antony Blinken, on Thursday, October 12, 2023, vowed that the U.S will always throw its weight behind Israel, but stated that the Palestinians also had legitimate aspirations not represented by militant group Hamas.

Blinken issued a statement during a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as war raged between Israel and Hamas, stating that Isreal may be strong enough on their own to defend themselves, but as long as America exists, they will never, ever have to.

While the US President, Joe Biden, has vowed unwavering support for Israel, not calling for restraint against Hamas, Blinken, on the other hand, hinted at the need for an eventual peace settlement, an idea that has long met resistance from the right-wing Netanyahu.

Blinken, therefore, promised that the Biden administration and Congress would synergise to meet Israel’s military requests, which enjoys wide support across party lines.

However, Netanyahu appreciated the US support, saying that Hamas, which rules the blockaded Gaza Strip, should be treated like the Islamic State group.