US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met yesterday with Israeli Leader of the Opposition Yair Lapid, Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, Chief of Defense Herzi Halevi, and War Cabinet members Benny Gantz and Gadi Eizenkot to discuss the situation in Gaza and the United States’ unwavering support for Israel.
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In his discussions with Minister Gallant and General Halevi, Mr. Sullivan received updated briefings on Israeli military operations in Gaza, and reiterated the President’s longstanding position on Rafah. Minister Gallant and General Halevi briefed Mr. Sullivan on new alternative approaches to defeating Hamas in Rafah to address the concerns that have been expressed by the U.S. side through the Strategic Consultative Group process. The two sides agreed to continue discussions. Mr. Sullivan reaffirmed the United States commitment to securing the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
Mr. Sullivan also discussed the importance of Israel and Egypt concluding talks to reopen the Rafah crossing as soon as possible, and the need for Egypt to ensure the continued flow of humanitarian assistance through Kerem Shalom. Mr. Sullivan emphasized the imperative to further surge assistance throughout Gaza, using all available crossings including Rafah, Erez East, Erez West, and the multinational humanitarian maritime corridor. Mr. Sullivan underscored the critical need for effective deconfliction mechanisms to ensure humanitarian workers can safely deliver aid to those in need throughout Gaza.
In his meetings with Mr. Gantz, Mr. Eisenkot and separately with Mr. Lapid, Mr. Sullivan reiterated the US commitment to see Hamas defeated, all hostages released, and the opportunity available for Israel to secure its future and people through a more integrated Middle East region.