WASHINGTON – Israel’s ongoing bombardment of Gaza faces increasing criticism from allies, including the United States and Middle Eastern nations, as calls mount for a cessation of attacks.

The Biden administration is pressing Tel Aviv to ease its assault on Gaza, given the extensive destruction and rising death toll in Palestine. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is currently visiting the Middle East amid fears that the conflict could escalate into a regional war. Israeli authorities claim to be shifting towards more targeted military actions after sustained bombings in Gaza.

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Antony Blinken has engaged with Gulf leaders, emphasizing the need for Israel to cease targeting civilians and permit the return of Palestinians to their homes. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has also emphasized the importance of ending hostilities and securing the legitimate rights of Palestinians.

Blinken has reiterated the potential involvement of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE in post-conflict scenarios for Gaza. The purpose of Blinken’s visit is to work towards long-term peace.

The US had previously expressed support to encourage Israel to de-escalate the situation. Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza continues to rise, with recent reports indicating hundreds more casualties in recent days.

According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 23,000 people have been killed, and nearly 60,000 have been wounded in Israel’s bombing of Gaza.