US President Joe Biden made significant calls to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas amid escalating tensions in Gaza. These diplomatic efforts come as the US deploys the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the Eastern Mediterranean.
Biden’s Message to Abbas
During his call with Abbas, Biden condemned Hamas’ attacks on Israel and emphasized that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people’s aspirations. He also discussed humanitarian assistance efforts for Palestinians, particularly in Gaza.
Biden’s Conversation with Netanyahu
In his conversation with Netanyahu, President Biden updated the Israeli Prime Minister on US military support and reiterated his warning against any actions that could expand the conflict. The two leaders discussed efforts to ensure civilians in the region have access to essential resources.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s Engagement
US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, engaged with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, reinforcing US support for Israel’s right to self-defense and calling for an immediate cessation of Hamas attacks.
US Defense Secretary’s Directive
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin directed the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to move to the Eastern Mediterranean to deter hostile actions against Israel and prevent further escalation. The Strike Group includes the guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea, guided-missile destroyers USS Gravely and USS Mason, and Carrier Air Wing 3.
US Commitment to Israel’s Security
The deployment of additional military assets underscores the United States’ commitment to Israel’s security and its determination to deter any escalation in the ongoing conflict.
US Officials in the Middle East
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, currently in the Middle East, met with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in Riyadh. The discussions revolved around ending attacks by Hamas against Israel, preventing the spread of conflict in the region, and seeking to protect civilians.
US-UAE Meeting
Secretary Blinken also met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, discussing the UAE’s condemnation of Hamas attacks and reinforcing the strategic partnership between the United States and the UAE. The discussions centered on building a more integrated, secure, and prosperous region.
These diplomatic efforts and military deployments reflect the United States’ active engagement in the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the broader Middle East region.
(With PTI Inputs)