Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken's Middle East tour included a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel, where they discussed efforts to prevent an Israeli invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza. The Biden administration is urging Hamas to agree to a six-week cease-fire and the release of some Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the freedom of hostages taken in recent attacks. Despite stalled cease-fire talks, the U.S. is pushing for a temporary truce that could lead to a permanent one. Blinken also emphasized the need for increased humanitarian aid in Gaza and the U.S. government's stance on Rafah. The U.S. is concerned about the potential catastrophic impact of an Israeli offensive in Rafah and is urging targeted operations against Hamas leaders and fighters. The issue of humanitarian aid for Gaza was also a key focus of Blinken's agenda.