U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Israel to provide more humanitarian aid and ensure the protection of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, warning that without these actions, there will be no partners for peace. Israel is on high alert for attacks on its border with Lebanon, sparking fears that the conflict could escalate further. Israeli troops have tightened their control over Gaza City as part of their campaign against Hamas militants. Blinken reiterated U.S. support for Israel’s right to self-defense but emphasized the need for a “humanitarian pause” to deliver aid to the Palestinians. He also reiterated the U.S.’s support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah indicated that his group is prepared for escalation, while Israel warned of the potential devastation a war with Hezbollah would bring for both Israel and Lebanon. More than 9,200 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, mostly women and minors, while over 1,400 people have died on the Israeli side, mainly civilians. Blinken pledged unwavering support for Israel and its defense, calling for a humanitarian pause in the fighting to address the growing crisis in Gaza.