U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday met with Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer with whom he discussed humanitarian measures for Gaza and addressed escalating concerns about regional stability.

According to a State Department statement, Blinken emphasized the U.S. push for a diplomatic resolution in Lebanon to uphold the terms of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to prevent further conflict along Lebanon’s southern border and ensure the safety of civilians on both sides.

"The Secretary and Minister further discussed ongoing efforts to reach a diplomatic resolution in Lebanon that implements UNSCR 1701 and that allows both Lebanese and Israeli civilians to return safely to their homes," the statement noted.

"The Secretary reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and Iran-backed proxy groups," it added.

The U.S. Secretary urged Israel to pursue every possible measure to “minimize civilian harm” in its military actions within Gaza, as he also underscored the need for steps that lead to "an actual improvement in the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza," adding that additional aid for civilians must reach Gaza effectively.

Blinken reiterated that any future peace in Gaza hinges on “providing governance, security, and reconstruction,” while calling for an end to hostilities and the release of hostages. 

Minister Dermer updated Blinken on recent policy and operational adjustments by Israel’s Defense Forces and COGAT (Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories) to ease civilian suffering in Gaza, following a letter from Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.