Israel's Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant hosted U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in southern Israel. They visited Kibbutz Nir Oz, attacked by Hamas, and "Kerem Shalom", a key aid crossing to Gaza. They discussed returning hostages held by Hamas and the need to dismantle the terrorist group. Gallant emphasized the distinction between fighting Hamas and aiding Gaza's civilians. He reiterated Israel's determination to destroy Hamas, blaming them for starting the conflict.
