US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, sent a clear message to Israeli leaders on Monday that the ceasefire proposal for the Gaza war could be their last real chance to secure the release of Israeli hostages and bring some semblance of lasting security to West Asia. He called it a ‘decisive moment', one that may not come again.

Gaza talks: Can Blinken succeed where he has failed before?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken began crunch talks with senior officials in Israel on Monday in an attempt to advance a Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal. Watch in for more details!

US State Secy Antony Blinken in Israel to push for ceasefire talks

Iran could launch an attack on Israel on Monday (Aug 5), US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has warned his counterparts from the G7 countries, according to a report in Axios.

Blinken set up a conference call with the US allies to generate 'last-minute diplomatic pressure on Iran and Hezbollah' to minimise the threat of an all-out war in the volatile region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Referring to the recent deployment of US warships and fighter jets in the Middle East, Blinken said it was for defensive purposes only.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the G7 ministers released a statement expressing 'deep concern' over the unfolding situation.

"We express our deep concern over the heightened level of tension in the Middle East which threatens to ignite a broader conflict in the region," read the statement.&nbsp;

"We urge all involved parties to refrain from perpetuating the current destructive cycle of retaliatory violence, to lower tensions and engage constructively towards de-escalation. No country or nation stands to gain from further escalation in the Middle East," it added.

White House believes a response from Tehran might be similar to the barrage of ballistic missiles and drones it launched against Israel on April 13. However, the scale might be much bigger as other Israeli enemies join forces.&nbsp;

Watch: West Asia Crisis: Iran and its proxies plan retaliation attack against Israel

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<h2>Israel to launch preemptive strike?</h2>

While the situation simmers, Tel Aviv is planning to launch a preemptive strike, according to a report in Times of Israel.&nbsp;Israel's leading intelligence agencies Mossad and Shin Bet and their chiefs met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a meeting, also attended by&nbsp;Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi.

The strike would only be sanctioned if there is airtight evidence that Tehran had cocked its guns and was ready to engage in the dogfight.&nbsp;

Israel stands on the cusp of another war after it was allegedly linked to back-to-back assassinations&nbsp;of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.&nbsp;

Washington is especially wary after Iranian Supreme Leader&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said avenging&nbsp;Haniyeh's blood was their 'duty' and vowed retaliation against Israel.&nbsp;

“The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our dear guest in our house and made us bereaved,"&nbsp;Khamenei said last week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-deploys-warships-and-fighters-jets-to-protect-israel-from-hamas-iran-and-hezbollah-triple-whammy-746730" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;US deploys warships and fighter jets to protect Israel from Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah triple whammy</a>

According to reports, Mossad hired Iranian agents that planted bombs in the guesthouse where&nbsp;Haniyeh was staying in Tehran. After it was confirmed it was indeed the Hamas chief in one of the rooms, the bomb was detonated from outside while Iranian agents escaped.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Iran could launch an attack on Israel on Monday (Aug 5), US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has warned his counterparts from the G7 countries, according to a report in Axios.

Iran could launch an attack on Israel on Monday (Aug 5), US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has warned his counterparts from the G7 countries, according to a report in Axios. Blinken set up a conference call with the US allies to generate 'last-minute diplomatic pressure on Iran and Hezbollah' to minimise the threat of an all-out war in the volatile region. Referring to the recent deployment of US warships and fighter jets in the Middle East, Blinken said it was for defensive purposes only. Meanwhile, the G7 ministers released a statement expressing 'deep concern' over the unfolding situation. "We express our deep concern over the heightened level of tension in the Middle East which threatens to ignite a broader conflict in the region," read the statement. "We urge all involved parties to refrain from perpetuating the current destructive cycle of retaliatory violence, to lower tensions and engage constructively towards de-escalation. No country or nation stands to gain from further escalation in the Middle East," it added. White House believes a response from Tehran might be similar to the barrage of ballistic missiles and drones it launched against Israel on April 13. However, the scale might be much bigger as other Israeli enemies join forces. Watch: West Asia Crisis: Iran and its proxies plan retaliation attack against Israel Israel to launch preemptive strike? While the situation simmers, Tel Aviv is planning to launch a preemptive strike, according to a report in Times of Israel. Israel's leading intelligence agencies Mossad and Shin Bet and their chiefs met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a meeting, also attended by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. The strike would only be sanctioned if there is airtight evidence that Tehran had cocked its guns and was ready to engage in the dogfight. Israel stands on the cusp of another war after it was allegedly linked to back-to-back assassinations of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Washington is especially wary after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said avenging Haniyeh's blood was their 'duty' and vowed retaliation against Israel. “The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our dear guest in our house and made us bereaved," Khamenei said last week. Also read | US deploys warships and fighter jets to protect Israel from Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah triple whammy According to reports, Mossad hired Iranian agents that planted bombs in the guesthouse where Haniyeh was staying in Tehran. After it was confirmed it was indeed the Hamas chief in one of the rooms, the bomb was detonated from outside while Iranian agents escaped. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Iran could attack Israel on Monday, Blinken warns G7 nations: Report

The United States will provide $500 million in military funding to the Philippines, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday, as Washington boosts ties with Manila in the face of China's growing assertiveness.

Blinken was in Manila with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin as part of an Asia-Pacific tour to strengthen Washington's latticework of alliances aimed at countering Beijing.

"We're now allocating an additional $500 million in foreign military financing to the Philippines to boost security collaboration with our oldest treaty ally in this region," Blinken told a joint news conference.

Blinken described it as a "once in a generation investment" to help modernise the Philippine armed forces and coast guard.

Blinken and Austin met with President Ferdinand Marcos, who has taken a strong stand against Chinese actions in the South China Sea, before holding "2+2" talks with their Philippine counterparts Enrique Manalo and Gilberto Teodoro.

The latest high-level US visit follows a series of escalating confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels in the disputed waterway that have raised concern that Washington could be dragged into a conflict due to its mutual defence treaty with Manila.

The additional funding is part of the $2 billion in foreign military financing approved by the United States in April.

It comes as the Philippine modernises its armed forces, one of the weakest in Asia, and bolsters its coast guard.

The Philippines' proximity to the hotly contested South China Sea, as well as self-ruled Taiwan, would make it a key partner for the United States if a conflict were to break out in the region.

Beijing claims almost the entire waterway, despite an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis, and considers democratic Taiwan to be part of its territory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelans-clash-with-police-following-disputed-election-results-745388">Venezuelans clash with police following disputed election results</a>

There has been a revolving door of top US officials passing through the Philippines since Marcos took office in 2022 and adopted a more US-friendly foreign policy.

Marcos expanded an agreement giving American troops access to nine Philippine military bases, including in the far north of the country, which has infuriated Chinese leaders.

The agreement allows US troops to rotate through the bases and also store defence equipment and supplies at them.

Marcos told Austin and Blinken on Tuesday that he was "very happy" about the open lines of communication with the United States, which helped Manila be "agile in terms of our responses" on issues including the South China Sea.

Blinken and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi sparred on Saturday over the South China Sea when they met on the sidelines of the foreign ministers meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Laos.

Wang told Blinken the United States should "refrain from fanning the flames, stirring up trouble and undermining stability at sea," according to a foreign ministry statement.

"The risks and challenges facing China-US relations are still rising," he said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The United States will provide $500 million in military funding to the Philippines, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday, as Washington boosts ties with Manila in the face of China's growing assertiveness.

The United States will provide $500 million in military funding to the Philippines, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday, as Washington boosts ties with Manila in the face of China's growing assertiveness. Blinken was in Manila with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin as part of an Asia-Pacific tour to strengthen Washington's latticework of alliances aimed at countering Beijing. "We're now allocating an additional $500 million in foreign military financing to the Philippines to boost security collaboration with our oldest treaty ally in this region," Blinken told a joint news conference. Blinken described it as a "once in a generation investment" to help modernise the Philippine armed forces and coast guard. Blinken and Austin met with President Ferdinand Marcos, who has taken a strong stand against Chinese actions in the South China Sea, before holding "2+2" talks with their Philippine counterparts Enrique Manalo and Gilberto Teodoro. The latest high-level US visit follows a series of escalating confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels in the disputed waterway that have raised concern that Washington could be dragged into a conflict due to its mutual defence treaty with Manila. The additional funding is part of the $2 billion in foreign military financing approved by the United States in April. It comes as the Philippine modernises its armed forces, one of the weakest in Asia, and bolsters its coast guard. The Philippines' proximity to the hotly contested South China Sea, as well as self-ruled Taiwan, would make it a key partner for the United States if a conflict were to break out in the region. Beijing claims almost the entire waterway, despite an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis, and considers democratic Taiwan to be part of its territory. Also read: Venezuelans clash with police following disputed election results There has been a revolving door of top US officials passing through the Philippines since Marcos took office in 2022 and adopted a more US-friendly foreign policy. Marcos expanded an agreement giving American troops access to nine Philippine military bases, including in the far north of the country, which has infuriated Chinese leaders. The agreement allows US troops to rotate through the bases and also store defence equipment and supplies at them. Marcos told Austin and Blinken on Tuesday that he was "very happy" about the open lines of communication with the United States, which helped Manila be "agile in terms of our responses" on issues including the South China Sea. Blinken and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi sparred on Saturday over the South China Sea when they met on the sidelines of the foreign ministers meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Laos. Wang told Blinken the United States should "refrain from fanning the flames, stirring up trouble and undermining stability at sea," according to a foreign ministry statement. "The risks and challenges facing China-US relations are still rising," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US pledges $500 million in military aid to Philippines as tensions with China escalate

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US counterpart Antony Blinken ahead of the Quad meet in Tokyo and both leaders extensively discussed bolstering coordination between India and United States collectively committing to promote a 'free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific region'.

Quad Foreign Ministers' meet: Jaishankar says, 'We need to send message that Quad is here to stay'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the Laotian capital of Vientiane during next week’s ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken to meet Chinese counterpart in Laos next week

Iran can produce fissile material for use in a nuclear weapon within "one or two weeks," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday (July 20). The details were shared just weeks after election of moderate President Masoud Pezeshkian.&nbsp;

While Pezeshkian has said he wants to end Iran's economic isolation and that he stands for reviving the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and global powers, Blinken disapproved Iranian president's assertion.&nbsp;

Blinken said that "what we have seen in the last weeks and months is an Iran that's actually moving forward" with its nuclear program.

In 2018, the United States under former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the nuclear deal, which was designed to regulate Iran's atomic activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

Speaking at an event Blinken blamed the collapse of the nuclear deal for the acceleration in Iran's capabilities.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Does Iran have nuclear weapons?

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"Instead of being at least a year away from having the breakout capacity of producing fissile material for a nuclear weapon, (Iran) is now probably one or two weeks away from doing that," Blinken said.

He added that Iran had not yet developed a nuclear weapon.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said last month that Iran is expanding its nuclear capacities. Tehran has already informed the agency that it was installing more cascades -- or series of centrifuges used in enrichment -- at nuclear facilities in Natanz and Fordow.

Iran is the only non-nuclear weapons state to enrich uranium to the high level of 60 per cent, just short of weapons-grade.

Following the US withdrawal, Iran has gradually broken away from its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-willing-to-resume-nuclear-talks-with-the-united-states-acting-foreign-minister-741526">Iran willing to resume nuclear talks with United States: Acting foreign minister</a>

But Iran's acting foreign minister Ali Bagheri told CNN earlier this week that the country remains committed to the accord, known as the JCPOA.

"We are still a member of JCPOA. America has not yet been able to return to the JCPOA, so the goal we are pursuing is the revival of the 2015 agreement," he said adding "We are not looking for a new agreement."

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran can produce fissile material for use in a nuclear weapon within "one or two weeks," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday (July 20). The details were shared just weeks after election of moderate President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Iran can produce fissile material for use in a nuclear weapon within "one or two weeks," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday (July 20). The details were shared just weeks after election of moderate President Masoud Pezeshkian. While Pezeshkian has said he wants to end Iran's economic isolation and that he stands for reviving the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and global powers, Blinken disapproved Iranian president's assertion. Blinken said that "what we have seen in the last weeks and months is an Iran that's actually moving forward" with its nuclear program. In 2018, the United States under former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the nuclear deal, which was designed to regulate Iran's atomic activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. Speaking at an event Blinken blamed the collapse of the nuclear deal for the acceleration in Iran's capabilities. Also watch | Does Iran have nuclear weapons? × "Instead of being at least a year away from having the breakout capacity of producing fissile material for a nuclear weapon, (Iran) is now probably one or two weeks away from doing that," Blinken said. He added that Iran had not yet developed a nuclear weapon. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said last month that Iran is expanding its nuclear capacities. Tehran has already informed the agency that it was installing more cascades -- or series of centrifuges used in enrichment -- at nuclear facilities in Natanz and Fordow. Iran is the only non-nuclear weapons state to enrich uranium to the high level of 60 per cent, just short of weapons-grade. Following the US withdrawal, Iran has gradually broken away from its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal. Also read | Iran willing to resume nuclear talks with United States: Acting foreign minister But Iran's acting foreign minister Ali Bagheri told CNN earlier this week that the country remains committed to the accord, known as the JCPOA. "We are still a member of JCPOA. America has not yet been able to return to the JCPOA, so the goal we are pursuing is the revival of the 2015 agreement," he said adding "We are not looking for a new agreement." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran can produce fissile material for nuclear bomb in 'one or two weeks': Blinken

India on Friday (June 28) rejected the United States (US) report on international religious freedom as "deeply biased" and lacking understanding of India's social dynamics.

India on Friday (June 28) rejected the United States (US) report on international religious freedom as "deeply biased" and lacking understanding of India's social dynamics. Addressing the press conference, Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have noted the release by the US State Department of its report on international religious Freedom for 2023." "As in the past, the report is deeply biased, lacks an understanding of India's social fabric, and is visibly driven by votebank considerations and a prescriptive outlook. We therefore reject it," Jaiswal said. The criticism Jaiswal criticised the report for its "selective use of facts" and reliance on biased sources. The foreign ministry spokesperson pointed out that the report questioned the validity of Indian laws and regulations, including those aimed at monitoring financial flows and ensuring compliance, which New Delhi sees as essential for national security. "The report has also targeted regulations that monitor the misuse of financial flows into India, suggesting that the burden of compliance is unreasonable. It seeks to question the need for such measures," he said. Breaking: India slams US International Religious Freedom report. Calls it biased, driven by vote bank politics. @MEAIndia @randhir_jk : pic.twitter.com/Gd8A0C4CJS — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 28, 2024 × "In 2023, India has officially taken up numerous cases in the US of hate crimes, racial attacks on Indian nationals and other minorities, vandalisation and targeting of places of worship, violence, and mistreatment by law enforcement authorities, as well as according to political space to advocates of extremism and terrorism abroad," Jaiswal further said. What did the report say? The report on international religious freedom by the US State Department expressed worries regarding India's anti-conversion laws, incidents of hate speech, and alleged demolitions of residences and religious sites belonging to minority communities. Releasing the report earlier this week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that at present, "governments around the world continue to target individuals, shutter places of worship, forcibly displace communities, and imprison people because of their religious beliefs." "In India, we see a concerning increase in anti-conversion laws, hate speech, demolitions of homes and places of worship for members of minority faith communities," Blinken added.

Deeply biased, lacks understanding...: India rejects US report on religious freedom

The United States on Thursday issued fresh sanctions targeting Iran in response to ”continued nuclear escalations,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. Watch in for more details!

US issues fresh sanctions against Iran over nuclear escalations

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken who is on his 8th visit to the Middle East is speaking and briefing the media with the Qatari Prime Minister in Doha for talks on a potential UN-backed ceasefire deal.

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken says, Hamas has proposed amendments to ceasefire proposal

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinkin met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. The top US Diplomat is on a West Asia peace mission to deliver President Joe Biden's latest proposed plan to end the Gaza War.

US Secretary of State meets Netanyahu & Gallant; pushes post-war Gaza plan

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza.

On his eighth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Blinken is pushing for a ceasefire deal and seeking to prevent the conflict from spreading to Lebanon.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/today-we-voted-for-peace-un-security-council-overwhelmingly-backs-bidens-gaza-ceasefire-plan-730625">UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan</a>

<h2>'Say Yes'</h2>

Blinken, as per Reuters, said that Hamas remains the only outlier in not accepting the three-phase deal involving the release of hostages and cessation of hostilities, a proposal to which Israel has agreed.

"My message to governments throughout the region, to people throughout the region, is if you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say yes," Blinken told reporters in Egypt after meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.&nbsp;

Talking to Reuters, a senior Hamas official called Blinken's comments "biased to Israel."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://wionews.com/world/us-secretary-blinken-returns-to-w-asia-on-peace-mission-as-benny-gantz-israels-gaza-general-resign-730413">US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations</a>

&nbsp;

<h2>Blinken in Israel</h2>

After Egypt, Blinken travelled to Israel, where he updated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the "ongoing diplomatic efforts to plan for the post-conflict period."

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a readout of the meeting that Blinken also "reiterated that the proposal on the table would unlock the possibility of calm along Israel's northern border and further integration with countries in the region."

Ceasefire talks have intensified following Biden's proposal, with CIA director William Burns engaging with Qatari and Egyptian officials in Doha. Despite repeated assertions from Biden about imminent ceasefires, only a single week-long truce occurred in November.&nbsp;On Monday, the United Nations Security Council also overwhelmingly backed Biden's proposal.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza. On his eighth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Blinken is pushing for a ceasefire deal and seeking to prevent the conflict from spreading to Lebanon. Also read | UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan 'Say Yes' Blinken, as per Reuters, said that Hamas remains the only outlier in not accepting the three-phase deal involving the release of hostages and cessation of hostilities, a proposal to which Israel has agreed. "My message to governments throughout the region, to people throughout the region, is if you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say yes," Blinken told reporters in Egypt after meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Talking to Reuters, a senior Hamas official called Blinken's comments "biased to Israel." Also read | US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations Blinken in Israel After Egypt, Blinken travelled to Israel, where he updated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the "ongoing diplomatic efforts to plan for the post-conflict period." State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a readout of the meeting that Blinken also "reiterated that the proposal on the table would unlock the possibility of calm along Israel's northern border and further integration with countries in the region." Ceasefire talks have intensified following Biden's proposal, with CIA director William Burns engaging with Qatari and Egyptian officials in Doha. Despite repeated assertions from Biden about imminent ceasefires, only a single week-long truce occurred in November. On Monday, the United Nations Security Council also overwhelmingly backed Biden's proposal. (With inputs from agencies)

US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel.&nbsp;

It comes as Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and the Israeli general in charge of the Gaza Strip area on Sunday (June 9) announced their resignations.

<h2>Blinken in West Asia</h2>

As per an AFP report, the US diplomat will start his West Asia visit in Egypt with talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. From there, he will go to Israel for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Blinken's Middle East tour will also include visits to Jordan and Qatar, after which he will join Biden at the summit with the Group of Seven in Italy on Wednesday (June 12).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-drops-dramatic-footage-of-rescue-of-four-hamas-hostages-in-complex-daytime-operation-730368">Israel drops dramatic footage of rescue of four Hamas hostages in 'complex daytime operation'</a>

This visit follows President Joe Biden's May 31 proposal to end the conflict.

As per the report, the political dynamics in Israel and the silence from Hamas on Biden's proposal make the prospect of a ceasefire plan unlikely by the day. Hamas is yet to formally respond to the proposal.

<h2>Multiple high-level resignations in one day</h2>

Further complicating&nbsp;matters, Benny Gantz, a critical former MP stepped down from Netanyahu's war cabinet, saying that the prime minister has failed to finalise a plan for a "real victory", including coming up with post-war plans for Gaza.

The MP had asked for a post-war plan for Gaza approved by Netanyahu last month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-cabinet-minister-benny-gantz-quits-government-730338">Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory'</a>

Gantz, a key centrist, leads in polls as Netanyahu's replacement if new elections are called. His resignation complicates US peace plans&nbsp;as his departure can help further embolden Netanyahu's far-right supporters, who are hostile to compromise.

<h2>Why did the Gaza commander resign?</h2>

Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, the head of the Israel Defense Force's Gaza Division, in a letter to his superiors, cited Hamas' October 7 attack and his failure to counter it as reasons for the resignation. He&nbsp;is only the second senior IDF officer to resign over the Hamas&nbsp;attack. Previously, the chief of the Military Intelligence Directorate announced he was quitting in April.

According to the Times of Israel, Rosenfeld said in the letter, "On October 7, I failed in my life’s mission to protect the [Gaza border communities]."

"Everyone has to take responsibility for their part, and I am the one in charge of the 143rd Division (the Gaza Division)," he said.

"As I promised, I will stay until my replacement takes over the role, and I will transfer command over the division in an orderly and responsible manner."

"I intend to continue to take part in the investigations and the learning of lessons, to do everything so that what happened on October 7 does not happen in the future," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel. It comes as Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and the Israeli general in charge of the Gaza Strip area on Sunday (June 9) announced their resignations. Blinken in West Asia As per an AFP report, the US diplomat will start his West Asia visit in Egypt with talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. From there, he will go to Israel for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Blinken's Middle East tour will also include visits to Jordan and Qatar, after which he will join Biden at the summit with the Group of Seven in Italy on Wednesday (June 12). Also read | Israel drops dramatic footage of rescue of four Hamas hostages in 'complex daytime operation' This visit follows President Joe Biden's May 31 proposal to end the conflict. As per the report, the political dynamics in Israel and the silence from Hamas on Biden's proposal make the prospect of a ceasefire plan unlikely by the day. Hamas is yet to formally respond to the proposal. Multiple high-level resignations in one day Further complicating matters, Benny Gantz, a critical former MP stepped down from Netanyahu's war cabinet, saying that the prime minister has failed to finalise a plan for a "real victory", including coming up with post-war plans for Gaza. The MP had asked for a post-war plan for Gaza approved by Netanyahu last month. Also read | Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory' Gantz, a key centrist, leads in polls as Netanyahu's replacement if new elections are called. His resignation complicates US peace plans as his departure can help further embolden Netanyahu's far-right supporters, who are hostile to compromise. Why did the Gaza commander resign? Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, the head of the Israel Defense Force's Gaza Division, in a letter to his superiors, cited Hamas' October 7 attack and his failure to counter it as reasons for the resignation. He is only the second senior IDF officer to resign over the Hamas attack. Previously, the chief of the Military Intelligence Directorate announced he was quitting in April. According to the Times of Israel, Rosenfeld said in the letter, "On October 7, I failed in my life’s mission to protect the [Gaza border communities]." "Everyone has to take responsibility for their part, and I am the one in charge of the 143rd Division (the Gaza Division)," he said. "As I promised, I will stay until my replacement takes over the role, and I will transfer command over the division in an orderly and responsible manner." "I intend to continue to take part in the investigations and the learning of lessons, to do everything so that what happened on October 7 does not happen in the future," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations

United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday (May 23) that Washington was introducing new visa restrictions on Georgia over a "foreign agent" bill passed by the Georgian parliament earlier this month.

United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday (May 23) that Washington was introducing new visa restrictions on Georgia over a "foreign agent" bill passed by the Georgian parliament earlier this month. In a statement, Secretary of State Blinken said that the visa restriction would "apply to individuals who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia, as well as their family members." "This includes individuals responsible for suppressing civil society and freedom of peaceful assembly in Georgia through a campaign of violence or intimidation," he said, adding, that US support for Georgia was "longstanding and foundational to our bilateral relationship." Also read | Georgian president vetoes controversial law after weeks of protests Blinken also announced that he has launched a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation between the US and Georgia. "It remains our hope that Georgia’s leaders will reconsider the draft law and take steps to move forward with their nation’s democratic and Euro-Atlantic aspirations," the secretary of state added. What is the foreign agent bill? The foreign agent bill requires NGOs and media outlets that receive more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies "pursuing the interests of a foreign power." Georgian lawmakers passed the bill despite major protests. Critics have decried the bill as authoritarian and Russian-inspired. However, the ruling Georgian Dream party has said that the legislation is needed to ensure transparency in foreign funding of NGOs and protect the country's sovereignty. Also watch | Georgian president vetoes foreign agent law, says 'it stalls our pathway to EU membership' × On Thursday, Blinken said that the bill would "stifle the exercise of freedoms of association and expression, stigmatise organisations that serve the citizens of Georgia, and impede independent media organizations working to provide Georgians with access to high-quality information." US blackmailing Georgia over bill: Russia Also on Thursday, Russia hit out at the US over the foreign agent bill, saying the world was watching another fact of the cynical and inconsiderate American intervention into affairs of sovereign countries. "For now, Washington does not like a Georgian law on foreign influence transparency. And what will be next? What law would Washington not like? You know, they are just testing the waters," Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, as reported by news agency Reuters. "If Tbilisi and Georgia, people of Georgia subject to this blackmailing now, they would just demonstrate that it is possible to do anything with them. It is a fact," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

US introduces new visa restrictions on Georgia over 'foreign agent' bill

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (May 15) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing as he concluded a two-day visit to the war-ravaged nation.&nbsp;

He also said that the US was working to immediately send more ammunition and weapons to the front lines to help Ukrainians in their fight against Russia.&nbsp;

His visit came after Russia opened a new front in the war, which started in February 2022. Russia began a ground incursion into the northeastern Kharkiv region and has intensified the attacks in the past couple of days.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-plays-guitar-in-kyiv-to-signify-defiance-hope-ends-up-getting-slammed-721822">Antony Blinken plays guitar in Kyiv to signify defiance and hope, ends up getting slammed</a>&nbsp;

At a joint press conference in Kyiv alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Blinken said, "We will provide an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing for Ukraine."&nbsp;

He said that the US has put this together in a "first-of-its-kind defence enterprise fund", and it has three components. He explained that the first is to provide weapons today so that it will assist Ukraine in acquiring those weapons. Secondly, he highlighted the importance of investing in Ukraine's defence industrial base.

Blinken stated that it will help to strengthen its capacity to produce what the nation needs for itself but also to produce for others. Finally, Ukraine can purchase military equipment from other countries, not just the US, using this fund.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-new-symbol-appears-on-russias-military-equipment-heres-what-it-is-721687">Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson&nbsp;

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<h2>Putin hails Russian advances&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed his country's troops for advancing on "all fronts" on the battlefield in Ukraine, days after Moscow launched a major new ground assault.&nbsp;

"In all directions our troops are constantly, every day, improving their positions," Putin told Russia's military leaders, including new Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, in a televised meeting.&nbsp;

The Russian president held his first public meeting with Belousov, former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in his new role as Security Council chief and other government army officials.

He said that the Russian soldiers are "improving their position" along the "entire frontline" in Ukraine. Putin stresses that "whoever is quicker to master the newest means of armed combat wins".&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (May 15) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing as he concluded a two-day visit to the war-ravaged nation.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (May 15) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing as he concluded a two-day visit to the war-ravaged nation. He also said that the US was working to immediately send more ammunition and weapons to the front lines to help Ukrainians in their fight against Russia. His visit came after Russia opened a new front in the war, which started in February 2022. Russia began a ground incursion into the northeastern Kharkiv region and has intensified the attacks in the past couple of days. Also read: Antony Blinken plays guitar in Kyiv to signify defiance and hope, ends up getting slammed At a joint press conference in Kyiv alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Blinken said, "We will provide an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing for Ukraine." He said that the US has put this together in a "first-of-its-kind defence enterprise fund", and it has three components. He explained that the first is to provide weapons today so that it will assist Ukraine in acquiring those weapons. Secondly, he highlighted the importance of investing in Ukraine's defence industrial base. Blinken stated that it will help to strengthen its capacity to produce what the nation needs for itself but also to produce for others. Finally, Ukraine can purchase military equipment from other countries, not just the US, using this fund. Also read: Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is Watch: Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson × Putin hails Russian advances Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed his country's troops for advancing on "all fronts" on the battlefield in Ukraine, days after Moscow launched a major new ground assault. "In all directions our troops are constantly, every day, improving their positions," Putin told Russia's military leaders, including new Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, in a televised meeting. The Russian president held his first public meeting with Belousov, former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in his new role as Security Council chief and other government army officials. He said that the Russian soldiers are "improving their position" along the "entire frontline" in Ukraine. Putin stresses that "whoever is quicker to master the newest means of armed combat wins". Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

US offers new $2 billion aid to Ukraine; Putin hails advances on 'all fronts'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took to the stage of a Kyiv bar for a guitar performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World”, in a bid to send a message of defiance and hope, and highlight that the US and much of the world was fighting not just for Ukraine but for the free world.

However, Blinken landed in hot water after visuals from his performance sparked an angry backlash from Ukrainians, who chastised Washington’s top diplomat for an ill-judged jam session while Ukrainian troops are fighting in trenches, struggling to hold back a Russian advance amid a shortage of weapons.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-new-symbol-appears-on-russias-military-equipment-heres-what-it-is-721687">Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is</a>&nbsp;

“One word is enough to describe US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s evening in Kyiv yesterday: inappropriate,” said Svitlana Matviyenko, head of the Agency for Legislative Initiatives NGO.

Blinken, who is in Kyiv this week has pledged unwavering US support to Ukraine as Russia has intensified attacks in Ukraine.

He played a rendition of Neil Young’s 1989 rock anthem with Ukrainian musicians at a famed Kyiv bar, Barman Dictat.

“I know this is a really, really difficult time. Your soldiers, your citizens, particularly in the northeast in Kharkiv are suffering tremendously,” he said on stage, holding a red electric guitar.

“But they need to know, you need to know, the United States is with you... They’re fighting not just for a free Ukraine but for the free world,” he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-cancels-friday-visit-to-spain-ukraine-withdraws-troops-in-kharkiv-721641">Zelensky cancels Friday visit to Spain amid fresh Russian offensive in Kharkiv</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Battle of Kharkiv, Russia steps up attack

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Blinken is the first senior US official to travel to Ukraine after US Congress last month passed a $61 billion military aid package following a delay of several months during which Russia gained advantage in the battlefield.

Ukrainian lawmaker Bogdan Yaremenko, a former diplomat and MP from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s party, said the performance was ill-timed, coming after US aid delays cost Ukraine lives and territory.

“The message is not hard to understand, but it’s not getting through,” he said in a Facebook post.

Kyiv has been on the back foot on the battlefield for months as Russian troops have slowly advanced, taking advantage of Ukraine’s shortages of troop manpower and artillery shells.

“With all due respect, it’s a mistake. The message is wrong,” said Valeriy Chaly, Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States from 2015 to 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took to the stage of a Kyiv bar for a guitar performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World”, in a bid to send a message of defiance and hope, and highlight that the US and much of the world was fighting not just for Ukraine but for the free world.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took to the stage of a Kyiv bar for a guitar performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World”, in a bid to send a message of defiance and hope, and highlight that the US and much of the world was fighting not just for Ukraine but for the free world. However, Blinken landed in hot water after visuals from his performance sparked an angry backlash from Ukrainians, who chastised Washington’s top diplomat for an ill-judged jam session while Ukrainian troops are fighting in trenches, struggling to hold back a Russian advance amid a shortage of weapons. Also read: Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is “One word is enough to describe US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s evening in Kyiv yesterday: inappropriate,” said Svitlana Matviyenko, head of the Agency for Legislative Initiatives NGO. Blinken, who is in Kyiv this week has pledged unwavering US support to Ukraine as Russia has intensified attacks in Ukraine. He played a rendition of Neil Young’s 1989 rock anthem with Ukrainian musicians at a famed Kyiv bar, Barman Dictat. “I know this is a really, really difficult time. Your soldiers, your citizens, particularly in the northeast in Kharkiv are suffering tremendously,” he said on stage, holding a red electric guitar. “But they need to know, you need to know, the United States is with you... They’re fighting not just for a free Ukraine but for the free world,” he added. Also read: Zelensky cancels Friday visit to Spain amid fresh Russian offensive in Kharkiv Watch: Battle of Kharkiv, Russia steps up attack × Blinken is the first senior US official to travel to Ukraine after US Congress last month passed a $61 billion military aid package following a delay of several months during which Russia gained advantage in the battlefield. Ukrainian lawmaker Bogdan Yaremenko, a former diplomat and MP from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s party, said the performance was ill-timed, coming after US aid delays cost Ukraine lives and territory. “The message is not hard to understand, but it’s not getting through,” he said in a Facebook post. Kyiv has been on the back foot on the battlefield for months as Russian troops have slowly advanced, taking advantage of Ukraine’s shortages of troop manpower and artillery shells. “With all due respect, it’s a mistake. The message is wrong,” said Valeriy Chaly, Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States from 2015 to 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Antony Blinken plays guitar in Kyiv to signify defiance and hope, ends up getting slammed

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's arrival in Kyiv coincided with advancing Russian forces in the Kharkiv region. As Blinken asserted Washington's purported commitment&nbsp;to support Kyiv's war effort, Ukrainians faced their toughest battlefield scenario in months.&nbsp;

Russian offensive in Ukraine's northeast, especially in the Kharkiv region has forced thousands to flee their homes. On Tuesday (May 14), it hit the centre of Kharkiv with airstrikes. Kharkiv is Ukraine's second biggest city after Kyiv.&nbsp;

"We know this is a challenging time," Blinken said before meeting Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. "The assistance is now on the way, some of it has already arrived and more of it will be arriving … And that’s going to make a real difference against the ongoing Russian aggression on the battlefield."

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine war: Blinken in Kyiv to reassure Ukraine of US support

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Zelensky thanked Blinken for the US assistance but said air defence remained the "biggest problem" and asked for two new Patriot batteries for the Kharkiv region.&nbsp;

Hours later, central Kharkiv was hit with airstrikes. Officials said 20 people had been injured, including three children. One of the sites hit with airstrikes was a 20-storey building in the city centre, emergency services said.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

Antony Blinken's Kyiv visit came three weeks after Joe Biden signed a $60bn aid package for Ukraine. That aid package in itself came months after Republicans blocked it in the US Congress.

Ukrainian officials say that the delay in US weapons made a difficult situation at the front even worse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-blinken-makes-sudden-visit-to-ukraine-to-show-solidarity-721229">US Secretary of State Blinken assures Zelensky military aid 'now on its way'</a>

"The delay in passing the supplemental aid package did have an effect on the battlefield," according to an official US Department of Defense readout.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia's Kharkiv offensive</h2>

For the first time since February 2022, when Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a 'special military operation' against Ukraine, Kharkiv is back in the Russian artillery range. The Russian forces have seized a number of villages in recent days.&nbsp;

The Russian push in the Kharkiv region has stretched Ukraine's forces further. Ukraine has launched a new mobilisation drive to fill the depleted ranks at the frontline.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's arrival in Kyiv coincided with advancing Russian forces in the Kharkiv region. As Blinken asserted Washington's purported commitment to support Kyiv's war effort, Ukrainians faced their toughest battlefield scenario in months.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's arrival in Kyiv coincided with advancing Russian forces in the Kharkiv region. As Blinken asserted Washington's purported commitment to support Kyiv's war effort, Ukrainians faced their toughest battlefield scenario in months. Russian offensive in Ukraine's northeast, especially in the Kharkiv region has forced thousands to flee their homes. On Tuesday (May 14), it hit the centre of Kharkiv with airstrikes. Kharkiv is Ukraine's second biggest city after Kyiv. "We know this is a challenging time," Blinken said before meeting Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. "The assistance is now on the way, some of it has already arrived and more of it will be arriving … And that’s going to make a real difference against the ongoing Russian aggression on the battlefield." Also watch | Gravitas | Ukraine war: Blinken in Kyiv to reassure Ukraine of US support × Zelensky thanked Blinken for the US assistance but said air defence remained the "biggest problem" and asked for two new Patriot batteries for the Kharkiv region. Hours later, central Kharkiv was hit with airstrikes. Officials said 20 people had been injured, including three children. One of the sites hit with airstrikes was a 20-storey building in the city centre, emergency services said. What does it mean? Antony Blinken's Kyiv visit came three weeks after Joe Biden signed a $60bn aid package for Ukraine. That aid package in itself came months after Republicans blocked it in the US Congress. Ukrainian officials say that the delay in US weapons made a difficult situation at the front even worse. Also read | US Secretary of State Blinken assures Zelensky military aid 'now on its way' "The delay in passing the supplemental aid package did have an effect on the battlefield," according to an official US Department of Defense readout. Russia's Kharkiv offensive For the first time since February 2022, when Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a 'special military operation' against Ukraine, Kharkiv is back in the Russian artillery range. The Russian forces have seized a number of villages in recent days. The Russian push in the Kharkiv region has stretched Ukraine's forces further. Ukraine has launched a new mobilisation drive to fill the depleted ranks at the frontline. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky flags 'biggest problem' to Blinken as Russians advance in Kharkiv

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took the stage at a bar in Ukraine's capital Kyiv to play guitar and sing Neil Young's 1989 hit "Rockin' in the Free World" with a local band. Listen in!

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken jams to Neil Young's song in Kyiv bar

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledges unwavering support for Ukraine on Tuesday in a visit to Kyiv, following the approval of a $61 billion financial aid package by Congress. Watch in for more details!

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Kyiv to pledge support

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on a surprise visit to Kyiv. But are you even surprised? Blinken has been taking multiple diplomatic foreign trips. But how are these trips helping anyone?

Gravitas | Ukraine war: Blinken in Kyiv to reassure Ukraine of US support

The Russia Ukraine war is now witnessing a fresh wave of escalation and in show of support with Ukraine the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday in an unannounced trip. Watch in for more details!

US' Antony Blinken on surprise visit to Kyiv, says 'more aid will come for Ukraine'

The United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday (May 12) that an all-out Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah would provoke "anarchy" without eliminating Hamas.

The United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday (May 12) that an all-out Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah would provoke "anarchy" without eliminating Hamas. "Israel's on the trajectory, potentially, to inherit an insurgency with many armed Hamas left, or if it leaves, a vacuum filled by chaos, filled by anarchy and probably refilled by Hamas," Blinken told CBS News. On being asked whether the US concurred with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Israeli forces had killed more civilians than Hamas militants since the war began, Blinken replied simply, "Yes, we do." Speaking to another American media outlet, the US Secretary of State said on Sunday that Washington was continuing to press Israeli leaders to provide a plan for Gaza once the war is finally over. Blinken further said Hamas militants had already returned to certain areas of northern Gaza that Israel had "liberated." Fighting rages across Gaza Blinken remarks came as fighting raged across the Gaza Strip on Sunday. The Israeli military sent tanks into eastern Jabalia in northern Gaza after a night of heavy aerial and ground bombardments, killing 19 people and wounding dozens of others, Palestinian health officials said. Jabalia is the biggest of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps and is home to more than 100,000 people, most of whom were descendants of Palestinians who were driven from towns and villages in what is now Israel during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war that led to the creation the state of Israel. Addressing a press conference, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari said, "We identified in the past weeks attempts by Hamas to rehabilitate its military capabilities in Jabalia. We are operating there to eliminate those attempts." Thousands of families were leaving Rafah as the Israeli military pressure intensified. Meanwhile, the armed wing of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad said their fighters attacked Israeli forces in several areas inside Gaza with anti-tank rockets and mortar bombs, including in Rafah. Death toll in Gaza over 35,000 The war between Israel and Hamas began last year when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The Palestinian militant group took hundreds of people as hostages. Israel estimates 128 captives remain in Gaza. It is presumed that 36 of these 128 captives are dead. Israel struck back hard in Gaza, killing thousands of Palestinians and displacing tens of thousands of more. On Sunday, the death toll in the war crossed 35,000, as per the Hamas-run health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel's Rafah offensive will provoke 'anarchy' without eliminating Hamas, says Blinken

In response to a hostage negotiation, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was informed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that he would not accept an end to the Gaza War. Watch to know more.

US Secretary of State Blinken holds talks with PM Netanyahu, PM says, 'will go ahead with Rafah ops'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is all set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Wednesday, amid a diplomatic push to broker a ceasefire-for-hostages deal between Jerusalem and the Hamas terrorist organization. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken to meet Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu to push for Gaza truce

Student protests against Israel’s war on Gaza have popped up on an increasing number of college campuses following last week’s arrest of more than 100 demonstrators at Columbia University. Meanwhile protests are erupting across Israel, as demonstrators are demanding release of hostages, Watch in for more details!

Israel war: Israelis call for release of hostages | US campus protesters demand ceasefire

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit Israel on next week to discuss with officials about Netanyahu's planned Rafah incursion as well as talks for a hostage release deal. Watch in for more details!

Report: Antony Blinken set to visit Israel on Tuesday to halt Netanyahu's Rafah plan

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and senior Chinese officials, stressing the importance of “responsibly managing” the differences between the United States and China. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken meets Xi Jinping in Beijing to discuss bilateral and global issues

United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who recently concluded his three-day visit to China, raised concerns about China's support to Russian military.

United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who recently concluded his three-day visit to China, raised concerns about China's support to Russian military. He raised this matter during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday (Apr 26), news agency Reuters reported. "I reiterated our serious concern about the PRC (People's Republic of China) providing components that are powering Russia's brutal war of aggression against Ukraine," Blinken said during a press conference at the end of his China visit. However, the US Secretary of State did not respond to a question on whether Washington would impose sanctions on China's support for Russia, reported the news agency. “China has demonstrated in the past when it comes to Russia and Ukraine, that it can take positive action. You'll recall that while over a year ago we had concerns that Russia was considering the possible use of a nuclear weapon, and I believe that China's voice was important at least at that time, in moving Russia away from that possible course of action,” Blinken added. During China visit, Blinken meets Xi Antony Blinken embarked on a three-day visit to China on Wednesday, to meet President Xi Jinping and other top Chinese officials. During the meeting (with Blinken), Xi said that China and US should be partners and not rivals. Also watch | Blinken says China can help 'calm tensions' in West Asia × "Mutually gain achievements, not hurt each other. Both countries should seek common ground while reserving differences instead of vicious competition. Both sides should keep their word, instead of saying one thing and doing another," Xi added. "The global situation is constantly changing. With China-US increasing dialogue, managing differences and promoting cooperation, is not only the general aspiration of the two peoples (something the people of both countries want to see), but also what the rest of the world anticipates. I have said many times, that the world is big enough to accommodate both the US and Chinese development. China is happy to see a self-confident, open, prosperous and developing United States," the further said. Blinken, meanwhile, said, "President Biden asked me to return here to follow up on the important agenda that will set deeper cooperation as well as to manage responsibly the differences that we have. I think we’ve seen progress in various cooperation, particularly in military-to-military communication, counter-narcotics, the future of artificial intelligence, and we will keep on strengthening our people-to-people ties." Blinken also pointed out that the US and China should deal responsibly with "our differences so we avoid any miscommunication, any misconceptions, any miscalculations." 'US has seen evidence of China attempting to influence polls' On Friday, Blinken said that Washington had seen evidence of Chinese attempts to influence the upcoming US presidential elections. Also read | Blinken says US has seen evidence of China meddling in presidential elections “We have seen, generally speaking, evidence of attempts to influence and arguably interfere, and we want to make sure that that’s cut off as quickly as possible,” Blinken told CNN, adding, that any interference by Beijing in the elections was something that was totally unacceptable to the US. The US Secretary of State also said that there was concern about China and other countries playing on existing social divisions in the US in influencing campaigns. (With inputs from agencies)

During China visit, Antony Blinken confronts Beijing over its support to Russian military

The top diplomats of the US and China held tough talks in Beijing as the rival superpowers sought to clarify their growing differences on an array of bilateral and global issues. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken in China: Blinken says China can help 'calm tensions' in West Asia

The top diplomats of the US and China held tough talks in Beijing as the rival superpowers sought to clarify their growing differences on an array of bilateral and global issues.

Antony Blinken in China: Blinken meets China President Xi Jinping, hold talks on AI

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Antony Blinken plays guitar in Kyiv to signify defiance and hope, ends up getting slammed

Zelensky flags 'biggest problem' to Blinken as Russians advance in Kharkiv

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken jams to Neil Young's song in Kyiv bar

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Kyiv to pledge support

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken jams to Neil Young's song in Kyiv bar

Gravitas | Ukraine war: Blinken in Kyiv to reassure Ukraine of US support

US' Antony Blinken on surprise visit to Kyiv, says 'more aid will come for Ukraine'

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US Secretary of State Blinken holds talks with PM Netanyahu, PM says, 'will go ahead with Rafah ops'

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