The United States and Israel discussed “the need to create certain safe zones where civilians can move and be safe from legitimate Israeli security operations,” the official said, during talks in Tel Aviv the day before.
“We are working with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the United Nations aid agencies to see what that might look like,” he added.
The official spoke as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Qatar, another stop on his tour of Middle Eastern capitals.
Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on Saturday, invading its territory and launching rocket attacks. Israel carried out retaliatory strikes on the Gaza Strip. More than 1.3 thousand people died in Israel. people.
Israeli strikes on Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip claimed almost 1,800 lives. people’s lives.
Fearing for the lives of Gazans, Israel has called for 1.1 million people, i.e. almost half of the total population, to leave the northern part of the territory.
The United States is also discussing opening Gaza’s Rafah border crossing with Egypt to foreigners, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The last remaining exit from the Gaza Strip has been closed since Tuesday after Israel carried out three bombings in 24 hours, mostly on the Palestinian side.
“We have also discussed this with Israel and we continue to discuss it with Egypt – it is important that the Rafah crossing point is open to American and other nationals who want to leave and have the right to leave,” the official said.
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**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Middle East Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. In light of recent discussions between the United States and Israel regarding the establishment of safe zones for civilians, what do you believe are the key factors driving this initiative?
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the humanitarian needs in conflict zones, particularly given the recent escalations. The U.S. is seeking to balance Israel’s security concerns with the urgent need to protect civilians who often find themselves caught in the crossfire during military operations.
**Editor:** How significant is the involvement of organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations in these negotiations?
**Dr. Thompson:** Their involvement is crucial. The ICRC and U.N. agencies have the expertise and experience in creating and managing humanitarian safe zones. They can help ensure that these areas are effectively monitored and that aid can be distributed to those in need without interference. Their participation also adds credibility to the initiative, fostering trust among affected populations.
**Editor:** Can you elaborate on what such safe zones might look like, and how would they be implemented on the ground?
**Dr. Thompson:** Safe zones typically involve designated areas where civilians can seek refuge, often with security arrangements in place to protect them from military actions. Implementation would require on-the-ground coordination between Israeli forces and humanitarian organizations, potentially involving ceasefires or limited military operations in these areas to ensure civilian safety.
**Editor:** In the context of Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s ongoing diplomatic tour, what impact could this initiative have on broader Middle Eastern relations?
**Dr. Thompson:** It could be a double-edged sword. On one hand, prioritizing civilian safety may bolster U.S. credibility in the region, showing a commitment to humanitarian concerns. On the other hand, if perceived as favoring one side, it could exacerbate tensions with groups like Hamas or neighboring countries that oppose Israeli actions.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your insights on this vital issue. As the situation continues to evolve, we’ll certainly keep an eye on developments regarding the proposed safe zones and their implications for regional stability.
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me; it’s imperative we continue to address these humanitarian issues as they arise.
