Blinken affirms Israel's 'right to defend itself' in call with Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday evening, with Washington's top diplomat affirming Israel's "right to defend itself."

Missing from the Likud leader's summary of the conversation, however, is Blinken's request for de-escalation and for Palestinians "to be able to live in safety and security."

I spoke with @IsraeliPM today about the ongoing situation in Israel including rocket fire emanating from the Gaza Strip targeting Israeli civilians. Israel has the right to defend itself. Palestinians need to be able to live in safety and security. It’s vital now to deescalate.

— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) May 12, 2021

Prime Minister Benjamin spoke by telephone with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The Prime Minister thanked him for the American support of Israel's right to self-defense, which the Secretary reiterated during the call.

— PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) May 12, 2021