Blinken: Protests in America Against War in Gaza Are a Sign of Democratic Strength

Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, said on Friday, April 26, that protests at universities in America over the war in Gaza are a sign of American democracy. He also criticized the 'silence' regarding the Palestinian militant group Hamas. According to Reuters, around 550 people have been arrested in recent protests at several major universities in the U.S. against the war between Israel and Hamas. In a press conference in China, responding to a question about these protests, he acknowledged that this war has 'evoked passionate feelings' and that the Biden administration is making every effort to stop the war. He stated, 'In our country, one of the prominent features of democracy is that citizens can express their views, concerns, and anger whenever they want, and I believe this is a manifestation of the country's strength and the power of democracy.' However, he advised critics to focus their anger on Hamas, which ignited the war with its attack on southern Israel on October 7, resulting in about 1,200 deaths and around 250 hostages taken. In response to Hamas's attack, Israel launched a full-scale war aimed at destroying Hamas, which is supported by the Iranian government, in the Gaza Strip. Blinken noted that in these protests, 'there has been such silence about Hamas that it seems they are not even part of the story.' He reiterated that Israel's actions to ensure that October 7 does not happen again are vital, but the Biden administration is working daily 'to minimize the harm to innocent people and ensure they receive the aid and support they need.' Blinken, who met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Friday, said they discussed how China could play a constructive role in 'deterring the Iranian regime' and its proxy groups from escalating tensions. China is the main buyer of oil from the sanctioned Islamic Republic of Iran. He added, 'I believe the relationship that China [has with the Iranian government] can be positive in efforts to calm tensions, prevent escalation and expansion, and we agreed to stay in regular contact on this issue, and I am sure it will be so.' Meanwhile, Reuters reported that an unnamed official said an Egyptian delegation met with Israeli officials on Friday to resume negotiations for the release of hostages still held by Hamas. According to the report, although Israel has not made any new proposals, it is willing to agree to a limited ceasefire for the release of 33 hostages instead of the 40 being discussed. Israeli media reports indicate that Israeli intelligence officials believe that out of a total of 133 hostages still held by Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups, 33 hostages, including women, the elderly, and the sick, are still alive in Gaza. The Egyptian delegation's visit followed reports from Israeli media about the visit of Major General Herzi Halevi, the Chief of Staff of the Israeli Army, and Ronen Bar, the head of Shin Bet, Israel's security agency, to Cairo on Thursday. The two Israeli ministers contacted Antony Blinken; efforts are underway to reconsider the possibility of sanctions. Blinken is going to Israel to negotiate on stopping the conflict in Gaza and the release of hostages. The U.S. Secretary of State emphasized the need to respect human rights in all countries and rejected double standards in this regard. Progress has been made in ceasefire negotiations in Gaza; Egyptian state media reports that 'fundamental points' have been agreed upon. Gallant: While striving to destroy Hamas, we will facilitate increased aid to Gaza. Shin Bet: The Iranian government is likely behind sending a 'condolence wreath' to the family of the Israeli hostage. Negotiations for the release of hostages and establishing a ceasefire are likely on Sunday; a Hamas representative is going to Cairo.