Secretary Blinken’s Call with Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi

05/17/2021 04:51 PM EDT

 

Office of the Spokesperson

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi.  The Secretary discussed U.S. efforts to bring an end to the violence, which has claimed the lives of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, including children. The Secretary also expressed deep concern at the inter-communal violence. The two discussed the path forward, and the Secretary noted that the United States would remain engaged with Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and other regional stakeholders as part of our diplomacy to ease tensions and put an end to the hostilities.