The US has begun working with Israel and Egypt to establish a safe passage for the evacuation of Americans and other foreign citizens from Gaza, US and Israeli officials report.
Officials estimate that more than 500 Americans and other foreign nationals are trapped in the Strip, including UN staff, members of non-governmental organisations and journalists.
With border closures along Israel and Egypt and intensified aerial strikes by Israeli forces, leaving the enclave has become practically impossible. Moreover, Israel is expected to carry out a ground operation, which will further aggravate the situation.
Israel and Egypt agreed on creating a safe exit from the Gaza Strip for Americans and other foreign nationals. However, the two countries highlighted that the establishment of a humanitarian corridor would be complicated due to the need for a temporary ceasefire.
On Wednesday, US State Secretary Antony Blinken confirmed talks on creation a safe passage with Israel and Egypt.
It’s an ongoing conversation. I can’t get into the details. Some of this is, needless to say, understandably complicated.
Blinken is to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials on Thursday. After that, he travels to Jordan and meets with King Abdullah and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, US officials, including National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, informs.
We support safe passage for civilians. The civilians are not to blame for what Hamas has done. They didn’t do anything wrong.
