Blinken and Austin: U.S. prepared to act if American personnel are threatened in Israel-Hamas conflict
Rehoboth Beach, October 23: Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin have made it clear that the United States is prepared to respond in the event that American personnel or armed forces become targets in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. They emphasize that the U.S. is fully within its rights to defend itself and will not hesitate to take appropriate action. The concern is rooted in the expectation that the conflict may escalate due to the involvement of Iranian proxies.
Blinken expressed that the U.S. does not seek escalation and is not looking for a situation where American forces or personnel are at risk, but the nation is ready to respond if such a scenario arises. Lloyd Austin echoed these sentiments, noting the prospect of a significant escalation of attacks on U.S. troops and citizens throughout the region.
The warning from these high-ranking U.S. officials coincides with Israel's military response to a Hamas attack on civilians in southern Israel that occurred on October 7 and has now entered its third week. Blinken, who recently visited the region, cited a "likelihood of escalation." No one desires a second or third front in the hostilities between Israel and Hamas, which governs Gaza.
Antony Blinken further expressed concerns about the potential for escalation driven by Iranian proxies targeting U.S. forces and personnel. He stated that the U.S. is taking measures to ensure the effective defense of its people and the ability to respond decisively if the need arises.
- With inputs from agencies
