US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated the United States' opposition to any Israeli reoccupation of the Gaza Strip and any reduction in the size of the Palestinian territory. Blinken's statement comes in response to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal for post-war Gaza, which includes granting the Israeli army "indefinite freedom" to operate throughout Gaza once Hamas is defeated.

Speaking at a G20 meeting of foreign ministers in Buenos Aires, Blinken emphasized that Gaza cannot serve as a platform for terrorism. He stated firmly that there should be no Israeli reoccupation of Gaza, and the size of the territory should not be diminished.

Blinken also reaffirmed Washington's support for Israel's right to self-defense, following a recent attack near a Jewish settlement in the West Bank. The attack, carried out by three Palestinians, resulted in the death of one person and injuries to eight others.

Meanwhile, Palestinians have raised concerns about escalating Israeli-imposed restrictions in the West Bank since the onset of the conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

In response to the situation, Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for a robust security response, advocating for the construction of thousands of new housing units in settlements like Maale Adumim and across the West Bank.

However, Blinken emphasized that the establishment of new settlements is counterproductive to achieving lasting peace and is inconsistent with international law. He underscored the US administration's firm opposition to settlement expansion, stating that such actions weaken rather than strengthen Israel's security.

The exchange highlights the ongoing tensions and differing perspectives regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with the United States reiterating its stance against measures that could hinder the prospects for peace and stability in the region.