Overview

• Secretary Blinken discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and the protection of civilian lives.
• Blinken also met with InterAction’s President and NGO leaders to increase humanitarian access and assistance for Palestinian civilians.
• In a meeting with UN Senior Humanitarian Coordinator Sigrid Kaag, Blinken stressed the importance of coordinating humanitarian assistance and long-term reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
• The U.S. calls for the immediate release of all hostages by Hamas and holds the Houthis accountable for attacks on vessels in the Red Sea.
• Secretary Blinken expressed full confidence in Coordinator Kaag and strong support for her mandate to assist Gaza.