What’s happening:

As US Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarks on his Middle East tour, Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas leader, urges him to help end Israel’s “aggression” in Gaza. Blinken’s trip includes key visits to Turkey, Israel, the West Bank, along with Arab and Gulf states.

Why it matters:

The call for intervention by Hamas’s Haniyeh highlights ongoing tensions in the region and underscores the significant casualties and damage resulting from the conflict. With the US as Israel’s primary military and political supporter, Blinken’s influence in the Middle East, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, is emphasized.

The backdrop:

Haniyeh, currently in exile, expressed hope that Blinken has “learned the lessons of the last three months,” indicating a desire for a shift in US policy. He references the conflict’s ignition on October 7, when approximately 3,000 Hamas-affiliated militants attacked southern Israel, leading to significant losses of life and the taking of hostages.

By the numbers:

The Gaza health ministry reports over 22,700 casualties since the outbreak of war on October 7, with Israel identifying 8,500 of those killed as terrorists. The US remains a key ally to Israel, supporting its military objectives but also backing humanitarian efforts and resolutions for increased aid to Gaza.

The response:

Haniyeh’s message accused US support of Israel in this conflict of leading to “unprecedented massacres and war crimes against our people in Gaza.” He further implored Blinken to focus on ending the aggression and occupation of Palestinian lands during his tour.

The bigger picture:

The stability of the Middle East is linked to the Palestinian cause, declares Haniyeh, as he calls upon regional leaders to convey this message to Blinken. The US’s stance on ceasefires remains firm, yet it supports humanitarian pauses and has backed a UN demand for allowing more aid into Gaza.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.