Blinken Says Ceasefire ‘Would Allow Hamas to Remain’ and Carry out Future Attacks

Secretary of State Antony Blinken looks on, as President Joe Biden (not pictured) speaks about the conflict in Israel, after Hamas launched its biggest attack in decades, while making a statement about the crisis, at the White House on Oct. 7, 2023. Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters

Secretary of State Antony Blinken repeatedly avoided endorsing calls for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel–Hamas conflict, insisting Israel not only has the right to defend itself after an unprecedented attack by the Hamas terrorist group, but also to make sure Hamas cannot carry out similar attacks in the future.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been trading fire with Hamas for more than two weeks after Hamas gunmen breached the Gaza barrier and killed hundreds of civilians on Oct. 7.