U.S. Departmenf State, update (part 2)

 

Department Press Briefing – January 25, 2024

01/25/2024

Department Press Briefing – January 25, 2024 01/25/2024 05:33 PM EST Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson WASHINGTON, D.C. 1:03 p.m. EST MR PATEL: Good afternoon, everybody. I have a bit of a backstop today, so I will be mindful of the time. But I have nothing off the top, so Matt, would you like to kick us off? QUESTION: Oh, no – my gosh, I don’t really have anything that I think that you can – that you’ll have an answer, satisfactory or otherwise, to. So I’ll defer. MR PATEL: Are you – are you sure? QUESTION: Well, all right, all right, you want me to try? Okay. What do you have to say about – there are some indications that this Russian plane was actually brought down by a Ukrainian missile or rocket of some sort? MR PATEL: So I have only seen the press reports about this, and I really have no updates beyond when we spoke about this yesterday. We’re continuing to work closely with our counterparts in the Ukrainian Government to discern facts. Our understanding is that President Zelenskyy has called for an international investigation into the crash and into the status of the Ukrainian prisoners of war. The challenge, Matt – and you alluded to this a little bit yesterday – is that with this transpiring in Russia, it makes it incredibly difficult to verify what exactly happened. As you know, Russia doesn’t allow free press or independent reporting, and therefore its claims on this are difficult to confirm. So at this point we’re just continuing to stay in close touch with the Ukrainian Government to establish facts and ascertain what exactly happened. QUESTION: Okay, so my original premise was correct. MR PATEL: That wasn’t satisfactory for you? QUESTION: You didn’t – (laughter) – you didn’t have — MR PATEL: It felt very satisfactory. I’ve given you — QUESTION: You didn’t have an answer. Okay. MR PATEL: I’ve answered the question honestly. QUESTION: All right. I’ll let it go to others now. MR PATEL: Simon. QUESTION: Since we’re expecting something from the International Court of Justice tomorrow, this is your last briefing, I presume, before then. I wonder, could you tell us whether – the U.S. has obviously said that the South African case against Israel is meritless, but you also said in your statements related to the case that the ICJ is an important judicial organ, plays a vital role in peaceful settlement of disputes. So ahead of this ruling, is there anything you would say regarding – if provisional measures are sort of advised by the court, should parties abide by them? MR PATEL: I would not opine on anything like that given this is a legal process, and I’m not going to hypothesize or speculate on any kind of outcome. What I will just say again – and we spoke to this when the arguments are ongoing – is that the allegations that Israel is committing genocide we believe to be unfounded, but simultaneously, we will continue to make clear with our partners in Israel that they not only need to comply with international humanitarian law as it conducts this operation against Hamas, but they also have a moral and strategic imperative to take feasible steps, additional steps to prevent civilian harm, and that they also have a responsibility to investigate credible allegations of violations of international humanitarian law when they arise. But I’m not going to get ahead of the process on this. QUESTION: Does following that, does following international humanitarian law extend to following international law when the one – well, one of the world’s courts that can enforce international law rules on something? Should countries be expected to follow that? MR PATEL: I am just the – I have no way to ascertain or guess what the ruling might be, so I’m just going to refrain from commenting. QUESTION: But no, no, like — QUESTION: But that suggests that you’re waiting to see what the decision will be and then you then will decide whether you agree with the verdict or not, and if you don’t agree with it, then you’ll say no, it’s – but yeah. And in many other cases – particularly one that comes to mind is China and the Philippines in the South China Sea – you have called for the Chinese to respect those decisions. Are you saying now that you’re withholding judgment on whether countries should obey — MR PATEL: Not at all. Not at all. Over the course of this — QUESTION: — a verdict of the ICJ? MR PATEL: Over the course of this, we have been pretty clear that it’s our expectations that all parties, including the Government of Israel, comply with international humanitarian law. I will note, though, that throughout all of this, Hamas certainly has not been. But what I am saying is I’m not going to opine on any forthcoming ruling on this, and I will reiterate again that at the crux of this when these arguments started the week before last, that was rooted in this notion that – these allegations that Israel is committing genocide, and I will say again that we find those allegations to be unfounded. QUESTION: But I mean, in general, when a court is ruling on something, you can argue that you don’t agree with South Africa’s argument, but it sort of undermines the legitimacy of the whole system if the U.S. is not – is not saying ahead of time whether this ruling is meaningful or whether you would expect countries to follow it. And just to note, Hamas has said that they would follow – if the ICJ demanded a ceasefire, they would follow it, but I haven’t seen that statement from the Israelis. MR PATEL: Hamas has also said that they would release hostages and they have not done so in that regard as well, Simon, so I sort of take issue with your question reflecting Hamas as some kind of fair or credible interlocutor or actor in this. Again, I will just say – and you’ve heard me say this before – our expectation is that Israel needs to and must comply with international humanitarian law, but I’m not going to get ahead of tomorrow’s or any expected ruling on this. QUESTION: Can I follow up? MR PATEL: Sure. Go ahead, Said. QUESTION: Thank you. Now, but of course, Hamas did release some hostages back in the last week of November, correct? They did release hostages? MR PATEL: There has — QUESTION: Okay. MR PATEL: There have been releases of hostages previously, but there – they have not followed through on their broader commitment or claims that they would release hostages. There continue to be quite a number of individuals being held hostage, including Americans — QUESTION: Right. MR PATEL: — including Americans who continue to be unaccounted for, Said. QUESTION: Right. And responding to Simon, you said that we know that Hamas committed all these atrocities and so on and crimes, which qualify as crime by the court, possibly. I don’t know; I’m not a legal expert. But let me ask you this. I mean, Hamas does not get $4 billion a year. There’s not a state – does not get endless political cover and protection and so on from the United States of America. So are you saying that Hamas – Israel should behave exactly like Hamas? Is that what you’re saying? MR PATEL: That’s not at all what I’m saying. That is not what I said, Said. QUESTION: That’s how it came across. MR PATEL: And if I in earlier – I don’t think that’s how it came across. And earlier this week I was pretty clear that there is also no moral equivalency between the terrorist group Hamas and the Government of Israel, and that since October 7th we have not hesitated, we’ve not been – we’ve not been ambiguous. We have been very front and center about the fact that we expect Israel to comply with international humanitarian law. We believe that additional steps need to be taken to protect civilians and that that is a moral and strategic imperative as Israel continues to conduct this operation. QUESTION: Well, it’s the 111th day of this war. There’s an untold amount of evidence that proves whatever case you want to prove, and so on. You believe that all along, all throughout these raids, these attacks by whatever weapons, Israel has abided by the laws of war that you subscribe to? MR PATEL: I’m not a legal scholar either, Said, so I’m not going to opine on something like that from up here. QUESTION: Right. MR PATEL: On the – your comment about the duration of this, there is certainly a convergence between a lot of countries, including Israel, of wanting to see this conflict end as soon as possible. Hamas could lay down its arms. Hamas could stop co-locating itself with civilian infrastructure like schools and hospitals and apartment buildings. That certainly could help bring a swifter conclusion to this conflict. But again, there is no moral equivalency, of course, between the terrorist group Hamas and the Government of Israel. And we will continue privately, publicly, diplomatically in every conversation that we have with the Israeli Government about the moral strategic imperative that they have to take additional steps to minimize civilian casualties as it continues to conduct this operation. QUESTION: Yeah, I have a couple more questions. But conversely, Israel could also pull out its forces and stop bombing civilian areas, and that would end the war, wouldn’t it? MR PATEL: We have been direct with them, with the Government of Israel, on their need to comply with international humanitarian law and on their need to take additional steps to minimize civilian casualties. QUESTION: I want to ask you about the Palestinian American Tawfic Abdel Jabbar. There was a report in AP – lengthy – that shows that it was unprovoked, an unprovoked attack. He was riding a truck in a – in the finest of Louisiana tradition, he was driving a pickup truck, and then was shot. So do you have any comment on this report that is really quite detailed to what happened? MR PATEL: I spoke a little bit about this yesterday, Said. Our understanding — QUESTION: Because this report was just – this is something that just came out. MR PATEL: I understand. It’s been communicated to us that the Israeli National Police will be undertaking an investigation into the circumstances around Mr. Jabbar’s death. As I said yesterday, our hope and expectation is that that investigation is conducted expeditiously, it’s conducted in a thorough way, and we are eager to hear the findings of that investigation. Till that time, I’m just not going to comment or opine on the circumstances around his incredibly tragic death. Meanwhile, we will continue to offer all appropriate consular services to his family through our embassy in Jerusalem, through the Office of Palestinian Affairs. QUESTION: And lastly, I wanted to ask you about the hospital in Khan Younis. The Guardian is reporting that there are thousands trapped in the Gaza hospital in Khan Younis. I wonder if you have any update on that and if you can – if you’ll tell us what’s going on. What is the United States Government is doing to alleviate whatever is – this humungous suffering? MR PATEL: I don’t have any updates, Said. But I would echo and reiterate the call that you have heard many in this administration make: that all parties to this conflict need to respect the protected status of facilities like hospitals, so as to better avoid impacting harm upon civilians who may be receiving treatment or humanitarian workers and health workers who may be providing care in these kinds on facilities. Michel. QUESTION: Yeah. I have — QUESTION: I was going to follow on some of that. QUESTION: Different topic. MR PATEL: Slightly – okay. We’ll go to – go ahead. And I’ll pivot back. QUESTION: I just wanted to follow on some of Said’s line of questioning. MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: Because, I mean, just big picture, humanitarian aid is still at a trickle. You, yourself, have called that insufficient since at least October. Civilian causalities continue unabated. The destruction of civilian infrastructure continues unabated. So is it time for this administration to admit that the rhetoric – however direct, and candid, and oft-repeated as it is – isn’t having a material effect on Israeli behavior when it comes to this conflict? Is it time to reach for tools other than rhetoric declaring a moral and strategic imperative, that the Israelis are clearly not abiding by? MR PATEL: I would wholeheartedly disagree with that assessment. On January 24th, 210 trucks with food, medicine, and other supplies entered the Gaza Strip. QUESTION: Would you call — MR PATEL: As of January 24th, more than 9,000 trucks with humanitarian aid have entered Gaza since October 21st. That is excluding fuel deliveries. That is certainly not sufficient; it is not enough. The people of Gaza need more, but I feel very confident in saying that were it not for direct engagement from this Secretary of State, from this government, from this President, from this making the delivery of humanitarian aid a priority, that that number would have been far less. And so there is a real, direct, tangible impact and real-life consequence to the work that we are doing, to the engagements that we are having in the region with the Government of Israel and others to push these priorities forward. QUESTION: But there’s not been a meaningful increase in the number of trucks or in the flow of aid that’s been getting in since October. MR PATEL: This is a process that we will continue to work towards. QUESTION: For how long? MR PATEL: It – we – as long as this conflict is happening, the delivery of humanitarian aid and doing so at a greater rate, at a higher clip, and increasing how much is going into Gaza will continue to be a priority. QUESTION: What about on the other issues, on the civilian infrastructure, the civilian causalities? Does it not feel to the U.S. like it is pushing on a closed door when it comes to rhetoric that it’s employed? MR PATEL: We have been direct in our conversations with the Government of Israel. When we have seen instances of actions that we believe are contradictory to the principles that we believe the region should be abiding by or are contradictory to the very clear principles the Secretary laid out in Tokyo in the fall – specifically when we see things like efforts around a buffer zone, or when we see efforts around the destruction of civilian infrastructure – we have raised those things publicly from up here. But we also have raised those privately in the around-the-clock, active conversations that we continue to have with our Israeli interlocutors, and we’ll continue to do so. QUESTION: Let me ask it this way: Is the U.S. considering anything other than conversation as a tool to effect change in Israeli – in Israeli’s behavior in this conflict? MR PATEL: I have no new policy or a new assessment to offer. But we’ll continue to have our conversations with the Israeli Government, and we’ll continue to work at this. QUESTION: Okay. Can I ask on the hostages? MR PATEL: Sure. QUESTION: There are reports now that a similar group that has met in the past is reconvening to discuss a potential new framework for a hostage release. Is there anything you can offer on that front? MR PATEL: I don’t have any updates to offer on that line of work, Olivia. It continues to be a priority for us, and we’ll continue to work at it, in close coordination across the interagency, as well as with our partners in Israel. But I have no updates to offer on that. Michel. QUESTION: Okay. Does the U.S. believe that — MR PATEL: I’m sorry. QUESTION: — Prime Minister Netanyahu’s comments with regard to the Qataris’ involvement in hostage negotiations set those efforts back? MR PATEL: I don’t have any assessment to offer on those comments or some of the audio that’s been circulating. What I can just say – and I spoke a little bit about this yesterday – is that Qatar has been an integral, irreplaceable, key regional partner, not just as it relates to this current ongoing conflict, but other priorities that the United States has had in the region, and we’ll look forward to continuing to deepen our partnership with them and work with them on a number of key issues. QUESTION: I have one on Iran, but glad to — MR PATEL: Okay. Yeah. We’ll – I’ll come back to you. Anything else on this before – yours is slightly off topic, right, Michel? QUESTION: Yeah. I want to ask about Iraq — MR PATEL: Okay. I’ll come back to you. Ryan, you’ve had your hand up. Go ahead. QUESTION: Sure. I want to go back to the ICJ question. Setting aside opining on how the preliminary verdict might come out, would the U.S. at least commit to not vetoing enforcement of whatever the court rules, one way or the other? MR PATEL: I’m not going to commit to any action from up here. That’s not how the policy works. QUESTION: To pick up on Matt’s question from earlier, doesn’t that undermine the U.S. insistence that other countries ought to follow these court rulings? What does it leave of the kind of rules-based order if countries can pick and choose decisions? MR PATEL: That’s certainly not what I was indicating. Again, I think we need to take a step back here, because a decision has not come down, and no one here knows – unless you can tell the future – what exactly that will be. I’m not going to commit any U.S. Government action from up here within the auspices of any body. What I can say is that we believe that the allegations that started this process, that Israel is committing genocide – we believe those to be unfounded. Simultaneously, though, we’ll continue to raise with our Israeli partners the moral and strategic imperative that they need to take additional steps to minimize deaths on civilians. But I’m not going to get into this process beyond that. QUESTION: Last one. At the same time, there were images this week of Israeli protesters blocking aid coming into Gaza. To get that far into a military zone, there seemed to – there must be some kind of coordination with the military there. Did the U.S. raise with its Israeli partners this question of Israeli civilians protesting and blocking aid getting into Gaza? MR PATEL: I’m not aware of the specifics of those images, but what I will just say broadly, both as it relates to Rafah or Kerem Shalom, these are not crossings that the United States – they’re not our crossings. But we continue to be in close coordination with the Government of Israel, with the Government of Egypt, and other interlocutors on the appropriate entry of humanitarian aid as well as the safe departure of nationals who have a desire to leave Gaza. I have no doubt that had anything sort of propped up that made that delivery more laborious or more time-intensive, that we are having those conversations directly. But I just don’t have the specifics around that specific situation. Go ahead, in the back. Yeah. Is it – sorry – is on this topic, or something else? QUESTION: Different topic. QUESTION: On Israel. MR PATEL: Okay. Go ahead, Doc. QUESTION: Okay. Thanks, Vedant. According to a January 19th Jewish Telegraphic Agency article, 15 Jewish House Democrats have sent a letter to President Biden condemning Prime Minister Netanyahu for opposing a Palestinian Arab state. And my question to you is: Does such a letter harm or help Secretary Blinken’s diplomacy work in the Middle East? And why or why not? And then a follow-up. MR PATEL: Congress is an important partner as it relates to a number of our foreign policy objectives, including happening in the Middle East region. As it relates to a two-state solution and the creation of a Palestinian state, that is something this administration, this Secretary, this President have been quite vocal in their support about. We view it as the only solution that gets us out of this endless cycle of violence and puts us on a real, credible path to a more sustained peace and stability in the region. QUESTION: In light of Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu’s statement in an Israeli Government press office news release January 21st of this year opposing a Palestinian state, has Secretary Blinken opened a meeting with and addressing evangelical Christian and orthodox Jewish leaders’ religious concerns about a Palestinian state? MR PATEL: We meet with a number of interlocutors as it relates to any foreign policy issue, including members in the religious space, members of civil society. I don’t have any specific meetings to commit to or preview at this time, but non-government actors continue to be a key part of this continued and ongoing conversation. Anything else on – I know there are people who have other topics. But anything else as it relates to Israel and Gaza before I move away? QUESTION: Just one more comment about – there’s a Jewish scripture to all evangelical Christians and the Jewish leaders. It’s Joel 3:2. Were you familiar with that? And this has serious concerns for these Jewish and evangelical Christians, this religious scripture that really has a impact on what’s going on. MR PATEL: I’m sure it – was – is there a question there, or are you just commenting? QUESTION: Yeah, I just wanted to know if you’d heard of that, that Jewish reference, Joel 3:2, and — MR PATEL: I am not familiar with that specific one. But again, non-government actors, including those in civil society and the religious space, continue to be key parts of our ongoing conversation. QUESTION: Thank you. MR PATEL: Shannon. QUESTION: Thank you. MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: On Qatar’s role – MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: — in hostage negotiations. There’s – Secretary Blinken has said straight out that there can’t be business as normal with Hamas after this crisis is resolved. There’s been reports that Qatar might move away from having these ties to Hamas. But we’ve been, of course, in the middle of negotiations; there hasn’t been progress in – really in freeing hostages in about two months now. Is there a timeline for when those ties might be re-evaluated, or when the U.S. might call for Qatar to turn away from Hamas? MR PATEL: These are decisions for our Qatari partners to make. The Secretary was clear, and we continue to echo that, that it can no longer be business as usual with Hamas. And when we look at what our hopes and desires are for the region, it cannot be a return to status quo, which means Hamas can no longer be using Gaza as a launching pad for terrorist attacks onto Israel. As it relates to the specific relationships, countries will need to make their own determinations. But again, Qatar has played an immense role in the continued efforts to release hostages. Beyond that, they continue to be a key regional partner on a number of key areas, and we’ll look forward to working closely with them as it relates to our – some of our shared objectives in the region, and as it relates to this specific conflict. Go ahead. Yeah, you. QUESTION: According to the report by Wall Street Journal, the U.S. warned about the recent attack in Iran and shared information with Iranian Government. Does this imply intelligence cooperation between the U.S. and IRGC? MR PATEL: I don’t have any comment or any public assessment to offer on that time. Again, we – based on all the information that was available, we do believe that that terrorist attack in Kerman was a terrorist attack. It had all the hallmarks of a ISIS attack, and we reiterate our sympathy for the victims and their loved ones. QUESTION: Second question. The Taliban regime continue to take foreign national as a hostages, and use them as a diplomatic pawn to lobby for their recognition. This includes from a U.S. hostages as well. What’s the U.S. – United States is doing to release hostages taken by the Taliban and deter Taliban from this action? MR PATEL: We have no greater priority than the safety and security of American citizens, especially those who are wrongfully detained and held hostage. And so that work continues to be ongoing through our special envoy for hostage affairs, as well as other work throughout the interagency. But I want to take this opportunity to remind people tuning in that, again, our Travel Advisory for Afghanistan continues to be at a Level 4, which is Do Not Travel. Those travel advisories are important, they are serious, and Americans should review them before they travel to any particular destination around the planet. Michel. QUESTION: I was just going to follow on the Iran question. MR PATEL: Sure. I’m sorry. QUESTION: Okay, Michel? I’m sorry, because I’ve interrupted you twice now. QUESTION: Yeah, yeah, no, no. No problem. MR PATEL: Go ahead. QUESTION: You’re – so you’re not confirming that that warning was in fact issued, right? MR PATEL: I don’t have any comment or public assessment to offer on some of the reporting that’s been out there. I just again, though, want to use the opportunity to reiterate the U.S. Government’s sympathy to the victims and their loved ones and that this attack, as I said, has all the hallmarks of an ISIS attack. QUESTION: Okay. Bit of an impasse – I mean, our understanding is this was triggered by a sort of duty-to-warn policy. I was just curious whether there was any indication that there was also an effort to foster a diplomatic opening in a time with – of heightened tension with Iran. MR PATEL: I don’t have anything to offer – to offer any other public assessment or comment (inaudible). If – yesterday, though, I spoke quite eloquently, I think, about our continued adversarial relationship with Iran and the number of issues that we continue to have as it relates to some of their undertakings both on its own people but also some of their malign and destabilizing activities in the region. So I would not interpret any kind of change in policy based on anything out there. QUESTION: Thank you. MR PATEL: Michel. QUESTION: Respect for Michel. QUESTION: Follow-up on that? MR PATEL: I’m going to go Michel because we – I promise I’ll get to you — QUESTION: (Off-mike.) MR PATEL: Okay. Do you want – is it okay, Michel, if I go to Guita? QUESTION: (Off-mike.) MR PATEL: Okay. QUESTION: I’m sorry. (Laughter.) MR PATEL: Everyone, Michel is incredibly polite. That is how you all should act in – when you’re jumping all over one another. QUESTION: Yeah. MR PATEL: Guita, go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you, Vedant. MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: So we understand that the message to Iran was sent privately, quote/unquote “privately.” Is — MR PATEL: I have – I have no – I have nothing to offer on this, Guita. QUESTION: Was it sent directly or via third party? MR PATEL: I have no public comment or assessments to share. I, again, will just reiterate our sympathies for the victims of this terrorist attack and that, as always, we condemn these kinds of terrorist attacks that have direct impact on civilians and other unintended consequences. Michel. QUESTION: (Off-mike.) MR PATEL: No. (Laughter.) Please go ahead. QUESTION: On U.S. military presence in Iraq. MR PATEL: Uh-huh. QUESTION: A senior U.S. official said today that, “Seven years after our collective territorial defeat of ISIS in Iraq, we see a need to transition to a normal bilateral security cooperation relationship,” unquote. How do you describe a normal security cooperation relationship? What are the qualification of such a relationship? Does it include U.S. military presence in Iraq? MR PATEL: Certainly, Michel. So to take a step back in case folks are not tracking what your question is about, the United States and the Government of Iraq will start working group-level meetings of the U.S.-Iraq Higher Military Commission in the coming days. This initiates a process the two sides committed to during the U.S.-Iraq Joint Security Cooperation Dialogue that we hosted here in Washington in August. And the commencement of this HMC process reflects the deep U.S. commitment to regional stability and Iraqi sovereignty. Michel, some of the specific questions you asked are very good ones, and they are exactly why an agency process is necessary. We’re in – I’m going to let that process play out as we continue to have these conversations with our Iraqi partners, but they continue to be rooted in a number of areas, including our ability to continue our work to counter ISIS, the capabilities of Iraqi security forces, what kind of posture and things like that are needed. And, of course, my colleagues at the Pentagon would be happy to talk about some of this in greater detail. QUESTION: And on Syria, is there any internal discussion regarding the future of the U.S. presence there? And is there a plan for a U.S. military withdrawal from there? MR PATEL: The continued degradation of ISIS will continue to be a key priority for this administration. And, of course, the SDF continue to be a key partner in that line of effort. I have no new policy updates to announce. This will continue to be a commitment of ours. QUESTION: Thank you. MR PATEL: Goyal, go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you, sir. MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: Two quick questions. One is on U.S.-India relations as always. Tomorrow, India will be celebrating the Republic Day of India, 73rd. And many of the parts have been taken from the U.S. Constitution into the Indian constitution – all those freedom, every – all – almost every freedom in India – Indian constitution guarantees for every Indian citizen there. So any message from the Secretary and also where do we stand today as the – India celebrates the constitution, freedom? MR PATEL: Well, thanks for your – thanks for your question, Goyal. First, to take a step back, I would just note that – would wish a happy Indian Republic Day to anybody tuning in. Look, I spoke a little bit about this yesterday: India is a country – it is a key strategic partner of the United States and one that we look forward to closening our collaboration in a number of key areas on. And this is – was quite indicative in – during Prime Minister Modi’s state visit here to the United States this past summer. So this is an area we’ll continue to work on in close coordination with our Indian partners. QUESTION: And second, sir, if I may go, in recent days there was a tension between Pakistan and Iran. This was like the first time ever something like this – military or missile exchanges between the two countries. Where the U.S. stands, sir, what is the future of these two countries? Both are Islamic or same principles and both have bloats in their countries. MR PATEL: So Matt spoke a little bit about this a couple of weeks ago. We will let Pakistan speak to its own military operations. Broadly, though, we of course are concerned about escalating tensions in the region, particularly as Iran continues its destabilizing and provocative actions. And we’ll continue to remain in close touch with Pakistani counterparts, and we’ll continue to monitor the region closely. QUESTION: Thank you, sir. MR PATEL: Alex, had your hand up patiently. QUESTION: Couple of questions on Ukraine. MR PATEL: Uh-huh. QUESTION: Can you speak to how much the delay on the Hill has been impacting so far the humanitarian assistance that you guys have been trying to deliver? Given the fact that USAID is not working alone, it’s working with local partners, are you working with them, reaching out to them, asking them not to cut off? And what does it look like on your end? MR PATEL: Alex, the Secretary was very clear about this. There is no magic pot of money, and our expectation and our hope is that Congress is able to move as swiftly and expeditiously as possible so we can continue fulfilling our commitment to support our Ukrainian partners throughout this. That of course means in the security space, it means economically, it means in the humanitarian area as well, and while I don’t have any specific metrics to offer you, there are – there will be real, legitimate, tangible impacts if we’re not able to get this done. And ultimately the Ukrainian people and their efforts to fight against Russian aggression will be what suffers. QUESTION: I mean, the point I’m trying to make is that even if the funding will be back one day, infrastructure resources might not be if they cut off their operations. So are you working with them? How are you conveying that message – the humanitarian angle? MR PATEL: There, of course, are potential risk of downstream impacts, especially when it comes to NGO and humanitarian and implementing partners. Our colleagues at USAID may be happy to walk through some of those specific mechanics, but Alex, rest assured we are taking this very seriously and working with Congress around the clock to try to get this across the finish line. QUESTION: Thanks so much. And back to Matt’s question on the plane crash, I’m so sorry for beating a dead horse. MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: But what do you know so far beyond — MR PATEL: I don’t have anything to get into right now, Alex, beyond what we’ve seen in the public reporting, and I’m not at a – in a place to speak to anything else at this point. QUESTION: I was hoping you could also speak to the Russian line of narrative which blames the U.S., Western weapons, the seizing the momentum, this tragedy. What is your response? MR PATEL: Well, the – can certainly say that the United States was not involved in this in any way, but as I said in speaking to Matt, the problem here is that this crash occurred in Russia, and that makes it difficult to independently verify some of these things. So we’re going to continue to work in close coordination with our Ukrainian partners as they work to ascertain the facts. QUESTION: Which also reminds me of Kakhovka Dam destruction. You have never punished Russia for that, for their action. Why? MR PATEL: Alex, I think that over the totality of this – of Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, we have taken a number of steps to continue to hold the Russian Federation accountable for its aggressive and unjust behavior. Go ahead. QUESTION: Well, last question on this line, if I — MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: Any response to Lavrov? He used the podium in the U.S. this week to blame the West for so-called staging – for staging Bucha. How did you process that? MR PATEL: The notion that the West would stage things like Russian shelling on – the West would stage the sheer amount of civilian destruction that the Russian Federation has unleashed on Ukraine is just preposterous. Go ahead. QUESTION: Good afternoon. MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: Like to turn your attention to Nigeria, if I could, please. Multiple religious freedom advocates are demanding Nigeria be designated a Country of Particular Concern by the State Department. Right now it’s not on that list. They cite thousands of Christians killed over the years, including 200 this past Christmas. Simple question: Why is Nigeria not a Country of Particular Concern according to the State Department? MR PATEL: I don’t have specifics on the report to get into in front of me right now, but again, I spoke to this a little bit yesterday. As it works in our assessment, our belief was that it had not exceeded a certain threshold, but I’m happy to check with the team if we’ve got additional metrics that we can offer you in how that conclusion was made. QUESTION: Does the State – if I may follow up, just one question, does the State Department believe Christians are being persecuted in Nigeria? MR PATEL: We are paying attention and assessing the religious freedom circumstances in countries around the world, including, of course, Nigeria, and that work will continue. Jalil. QUESTION: Thank you very much, Vedant. (Inaudible) question. Since last few months, I have heard you and Matt say several times that you want to see free – and you urge Pakistan to have free elections and fair elections, but I have not heard you condemn a single thing. I mean, the election is less than two weeks away. Even today, one of the most well respected politician, Javed Hashmi, was arrested. I mean, forget about Imran Khan and all his people – like he is completely put to the wall. There is one guy who is even called ladla now, like a spoiled son. He’s become so popular that – and I personally for the last 25 years have published hundreds of corruption stories. Not once you guys have condemned the sort of elections that are taking place in Pakistan. You just keep on urging them to have a fair election. But you don’t see what’s going on over there? MR PATEL: Jalil, let me say a couple things. First, Pakistan’s future leadership is for the Pakistani people to decide. Our interest continues to be in the democratic process. We also have not been ambiguous about how we feel very strongly that a free and independent media are vital institutions that undergird healthy democracies by ensuring that an electorate can make informed decisions and hold the government to account. We believe journalists play a critical role in covering fair and transparent elections. We also continue to be concerned by any report that may be out there of restrictions on freedom of expression, freedom of association and the press. That would be – those kinds of things, we believe, are at odds with Pakistani authorities’ self-stated goal of a fully fair and transparent election. QUESTION: Tomorrow the Iranian foreign minister is coming to Pakistan. He does not visit many countries where they’re an ally of the U.S., very strong. Pakistan being an ally, what’s the kind of message you would like Pakistan to give to Iran in this current scenario in the Middle East and all these things happening? Any message you would like to see Pakistan give them? MR PATEL: That is, of course, for Pakistani authorities and their foreign affairs officials to determine. But should any country around the world be interested in continuing to call on Iran to cease its malign and destabilizing activities, its activities that particularly in the Red Sea are making international waterways and legitimate commerce unsafe, we’d welcome any country continuing to press Iran to curb its support for those kinds of actions. QUESTION: Just a last one, just a last one. Last one, last one, please. Today, Pakistani foreign secretary announced the third incidence of the same kind. Pakistan foreign secretary has accused India of transnational killings after Canada and the U.S. Does the State Department think it’s – I don’t think it’s the Indian Government policies. Is this something to do with Prime Minister Modi directly, or what’s going on, these transnational killings? MR PATEL: I’m not aware of this specific report and I would let our – the Government of Pakistan and the Government of India speak more about this. Ryan, you had your hand up. QUESTION: I had a Pakistan follow-up. MR PATEL: Yeah, yeah. Go ahead. QUESTION: In September, the State Department announced that when it came to Bangladesh, quote, “Individuals undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh” would face – would face sanctions and visa restrictions. You – to his point, you haven’t made those same declarations when it comes to Pakistan. Why is there a difference in how the two countries are being treated? MR PATEL: We don’t believe that there is a difference, Ryan. We just would not preview — QUESTION: So if there are – if there are individuals who interfere with the elections there — MR PATEL: I’m not going to preview – I’m not – each country is different and I’m not going to preview actions from up here. But again, we want to see free and fair elections around the world, including in Bangladesh, and of course, including in Pakistan as well. And when we see things that are at odds at our view for the region and things that are at odd for Pakistani authorities’ stated intent, we’ll continue to address them, as I have up here. QUESTION: So based on what you — MR PATEL: But beyond that, I’m not going to preview any actions. QUESTION: But based on what you just said, should Pakistani officials be concerned that they might be subject to visa restrictions? MR PATEL: I am just not going to preview any actions from up here. Go ahead, yeah. QUESTION: Thank you. The administration has expressed support for the sale of F-35 jets to Greece, and we know that unlike the case of Türkiye, the Congress is fully on board and wants to move quickly with that sale. Can you explain us why we have experienced such delay and why you have not yet sent the formal notification to Congress? MR PATEL: I’m just not going to comment on – on sales that have not been formally notified to Congress yet. Ksenija, go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you. You urged the Government of Kosovo to revisit the decision to suspend Serbian dinar on February 1st. You said, I quote, “We are concerned that the regulation adopted on December 27 will negatively impact the ethnic Serb community in Kosovo.” What gives you confidence that Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti even consider and take your position seriously? MR PATEL: Can you repeat your question, Ksenija? I’m sorry. QUESTION: What gives you confidence that Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti is going to take your position seriously? MR PATEL: Well, we believe, Ksenija, that constructive engagement and sincere and good-faith efforts by both Kosovo and Serbia will bring lasting benefits for its citizens, including economic growth, and ensure long-term regional stability. And we want to see progress on implementation of past dialogue agreements. We also believe that this is in the best interest for all impacted parties. Guita, go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you. Vedant, I don’t know if you’ve seen this Bloomberg report that Iran is sending combat drones to the Sudan. Given the situation in that country, it’s providing it to the Sudanese army, not the RSF. Is that a matter of concern to the U.S.? MR PATEL: I’ve not seen that. I’ve not seen that report, Guita. But certainly, Iran trying to take its destabilizing actions to other parts of the world and trying to influence and get involved in other regional conflicts would, of course, be of great concern to us. But I’ve not seen that reporting. All right, thanks, everybody. QUESTION: Wait, wait, I wanted to ask this yesterday but I didn’t because there were so many people waiting. MR PATEL: Ah, I’m on — QUESTION: And it is certainly a last and least question. MR PATEL: Okay. QUESTION: But what is it that prompted the U.S. Embassy in London to tweet about or to put out a statement about this tea controversy? MR PATEL: You’ve never – you’ve never felt the need to tweet something fun, Matt? Because if you look through your social media, I’ve noticed a lot of — QUESTION: No, not – not – not recently. MR PATEL: I’ve noticed a lot of Buffalo Bills content, a lot of hippo content. So it seems like — QUESTION: But not for – not for some time. And in fact, the Bills content is now gone until next season at least. MR PATEL: Yeah. QUESTION: But no, I’m just curious. With all that’s going on in the world, why did — MR PATEL: I have — QUESTION: Why did someone feel compelled to weigh in on something which is actually kind of factually inaccurate because — MR PATEL: Is this a Boston Tea Party joke? QUESTION: — the U.S. has a – the U.S. has a – yeah, a long history — MR PATEL: Good one. QUESTION: — of mixing salt water with British tea. (Laughter.) MR PATEL: There is never – of course, everyone can appreciate some light-hearted humor about your — QUESTION: Yes. MR PATEL: — caffeinated beverage of choice. I personally have no opinion on whether people should put salt in their tea or not. To each their own is what I say. QUESTION: Well, okay. But I’m just wondering why someone – is there – is there an official State Department position on the — MR PATEL: There is not an official State Department position, Matt. QUESTION: Or is a — MR PATEL: But as you know, many around the world look to social media as an avenue to engage with the American Government, engage with the embassy, and I have no doubt that our colleagues at Mission London thought — QUESTION: Okay. MR PATEL: — this was a unique opportunity to engage with the British public about something – something charming. QUESTION: Okay. And did – did they judge it a success? MR PATEL: I think so. I think so. (Laughter.) QUESTION: Yes? Okay. All right. MR PATEL: All right. Thanks, everybody. QUESTION: Thank you. (The briefing was concluded at 1:48 p.m.)

Condemnation of the Lukashenka Regime’s Raids on Former Political Prisoners

01/25/2024

e. Condemnation of the Lukashenka Regime’s Raids on Former Political Prisoners 01/25/2024 05:46 PM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States condemns the Lukashenka regime’s recent raids, detentions, and the regime’s broader ongoing attacks on human rights and attempts to thwart the democratic aspirations of the people of Belarus.  We will continue to hold the regime accountable, through sanctions and other means, for its harsh internal repression as well as for its ongoing support for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

U.S. Department of State Announces American Music Abroad 2024 Spring Season, as U.S. Artists Span the Globe to Promote Peace Through Music

01/25/2024

U.S. Department of State Announces American Music Abroad 2024 Spring Season, as U.S. Artists Span the Globe to Promote Peace Through Music 01/25/2024 05:56 PM EST The U.S. Department of State announced today that the American Music Abroad 2024 spring season is underway, with more than three dozen American musical artists and groups from across the music genre spectrum traveling overseas to promote peace through American culture as part of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative. The Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, launched by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken in September 2023, aims to promote peace and cross-cultural connections through music and supports broader U.S. foreign policy goals to expand access to education, economic opportunity and equity, and societal inclusion.  To learn more about this initiative, go to www.state.gov/music-diplomacy. An integral part of this initiative, American Music Abroad sends American musical artists overseas each year to more than 30 countries worldwide to engage with international audiences through performances and collaborations with local musicians, educational workshops, jam sessions, and cross-cultural exchanges.  American Music Abroad, which was first known as Jazz Ambassadors in the 1950s and 1960s, continues to elevate American music and culture as a diplomatic tool with global audiences.  American Music Abroad is implemented through a cooperative agreement by the Association of American Voices. The American Music Abroad 2024 Spring Season (Name of Artists, Music Genre, Hometown, and Country to which they will travel). Birkhead, Jazz, Washington, D.C. (Qatar) Marielle Kraft, Pop, Nashville, TN (Algeria, Morocco, Peru) Matthew Whitaker, Jazz Fusion, NJ. (Antigua, St. Lucia) Pipeline Vocal Project, A Capella, Anchorage, AK. (Kiribati, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu) Raining Jane, with Natalia Zukerman, Folk-Rock, Los Angeles, CA. (Pakistan) Sihasin, Alter-Native, Flagstaff, AZ. (People’s Republic of China) Sub-Radio, Indie Pop, Washington, D.C. (Estonia) The Beatbox House, Hip-Hop, New York, NY. (Brazil, Egypt, Liberia) The Invisibles, Hip-Hop, Detroit, MI. (Ethiopia, Guinea Bissau, Senegal) For more information on the United States’ global efforts to promote peace and democracy through music, please contact eca-press@state.gov.

Condemnation of the Lukashenka Regime’s Raids on Former Political Prisoners

01/25/2024

egime’s Raids on Former Political Prisoners 01/25/2024 05:46 PM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States condemns the Lukashenka regime’s recent raids, detentions, and the regime’s broader ongoing attacks on human rights and attempts to thwart the democratic aspirations of the people of Belarus.  We will continue to hold the regime accountable, through sanctions and other means, for its harsh internal repression as well as for its ongoing support for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

India National Day

01/25/2024

01/25/2024 07:36 PM EST On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India on India’s Republic Day. The Constitution of India continues to provide an enduring framework for the world’s largest democracy and a foundation for its global leadership. As President Biden has said, our relationship with India is one of the most consequential in the world. The past year has been marked by important milestones in our Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, including our cooperation throughout India’s successful G20 Presidency and at the G20 Leaders’ Summit. In the year ahead, we look forward to further deepening the vibrant people-to-people ties between our countries and advancing our ambitious agenda for cooperation on our most vital priorities. I warmly extend my best wishes to the Indian people as they celebrate this special occasion.

India National Day

01/25/2024

India National Day 01/25/2024 07:36 PM EST On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India on India’s Republic Day. The Constitution of India continues to provide an enduring framework for the world’s largest democracy and a foundation for its global leadership. As President Biden has said, our relationship with India is one of the most consequential in the world. The past year has been marked by important milestones in our Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, including our cooperation throughout India’s successful G20 Presidency and at the G20 Leaders’ Summit. In the year ahead, we look forward to further deepening the vibrant people-to-people ties between our countries and advancing our ambitious agenda for cooperation on our most vital priorities. I warmly extend my best wishes to the Indian people as they celebrate this special occasion.

Secretary Blinken’s Call with South African Minister Pandor

01/25/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Call with South African Minister Pandor 01/25/2024 07:54 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor today regarding the conflict in Gaza, including the need to protect civilian lives, ensure sustained humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians, and work towards lasting regional peace that ensures Israel’s security and advances the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The Secretary reaffirmed support for Israel’s right to ensure the terrorist attacks of October 7 can never be repeated. Secretary Blinken and Minister Pandor also reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-South Africa partnership and cooperation on shared priorities, including health, trade, and energy.

The United States Advances Cooperation with Vietnam on Economic Security

01/26/2024

The United States Advances Cooperation with Vietnam on Economic Security 01/26/2024 08:43 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi on January 25, 2024. In their meeting, Under Secretary Fernandez reaffirmed the United States as an enduring partner and expressed support for the rapid development of Vietnam’s semiconductor ecosystem as part of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This effort includes cooperation to launch workforce development initiatives. Under Secretary Fernandez lauded Vietnam’s ambitious goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The Under Secretary highlighted that the United States and its private sector partners stand ready to assist Vietnam in accelerating its just energy transition while stressing the need for an updated and modernized regulatory framework on energy. Under Secretary Fernandez also reiterated the vital role played by NGOs in tackling global challenges and advancing sustainable prosperity. Under Secretary Fernandez and Prime Minister Pham further discussed expanding cooperation on science and technology.

Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Lu’s Travel to India and Maldives

01/26/2024

Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Lu’s Travel to India and Maldives 01/26/2024 09:57 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu will travel to India and Maldives January 26-31. While in India, Assistant Secretary Lu will lead a U.S. delegation’s participation at the India-U.S. Forum in New Delhi.  Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey R. Pyatt will also participate.  The delegation will engage with Indian government officials and members of the private sector, academia, and media to discuss and enhance opportunities for partnership between the United States and India. The Assistant Secretary and delegation will then travel to Maldives, where they will meet with senior Maldivian officials to build U.S.-Maldives cooperation and to advance the establishment of a permanent U.S. Embassy space in Malé.  The delegation will also engage with members of civil society and higher education officials. For further information, please contact SCA-Press@state.gov.

Statement on UNRWA Allegations

01/26/2024

. Statement on UNRWA Allegations 01/26/2024 10:09 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States is extremely troubled by the allegations that twelve UNRWA employees may have been involved in the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel.  The Department of State has temporarily paused additional funding for UNRWA while we review these allegations and the steps the United Nations is taking to address them. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on January 25 to emphasize the necessity of a thorough and swift investigation of this matter.  We welcome the decision to conduct such an investigation and Secretary General Guterres’ pledge to take decisive action to respond, should the allegations prove accurate.  We also welcome the UN’s announcement of a “comprehensive and independent” review of UNRWA.  There must be complete accountability for anyone who participated in the heinous attacks of October 7. UNRWA plays a critical role in providing lifesaving assistance to Palestinians, including essential food, medicine, shelter, and other vital humanitarian support.  Their work has saved lives, and it is important that UNRWA address these allegations and take any appropriate corrective measures, including reviewing its existing policies and procedures. The United States has reached out to the Government of Israel to seek more information about these allegations, and we have briefed Members of Congress.  We will remain in close contact with the United Nations and Government of Israel regarding this matter.

GEC Releases Special Report: More than a Century of Antisemitism: How Successive Occupants of the Kremlin Have Used Antisemitism to Spread Disinformation and Propaganda

01/26/2024

GEC Releases Special Report: More than a Century of Antisemitism: How Successive Occupants of the Kremlin Have Used Antisemitism to Spread Disinformation and Propaganda 01/26/2024 11:00 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Today, the U.S. Department of State’s Global Engagement Center released a new report detailing the ways in which the Tsarist and Soviet denizens of the Kremlin — and now Vladimir Putin and his regime — have for over a century exploited antisemitism in disinformation and propaganda campaigns designed to discredit, divide, and weaken perceived adversaries at home and abroad. For example, in an attempt to justify Russia’s unjustifiable full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin falsely portrays Ukraine and its supporters as Nazis, demonizes the Jewish identity of Ukraine’s president, attacks Jews as “the worst Nazis,” and engages in reprehensible Holocaust distortion. Today’s Kremlin builds upon a long and ugly history of exploiting antisemitism, dating back to the Tsarist Security Service’s creation and dissemination of the notorious forgery, Protocols of the Elders of Zion. The Soviet Union then expanded on these tactics by propagating antisemitic lies to cement totalitarian control. This report details these historical attempts to weaponize antisemitism and exposes how the contemporary Kremlin’s intelligence services and mouthpieces spread antisemitic propaganda and disinformation across the globe to further its malign agenda. Read the full report here: https://www.state.gov/more-than-a-century-of-antisemitism-how-successive-occupants-of-the-kremlin-have-used-antisemitism/. For questions, please reach out to the Global Engagement Center at GECMediaContacts@State.gov.

GEC Releases Special Report: More than a Century of Antisemitism: How Successive Occupants of the Kremlin Have Used Antisemitism to Spread Disinformation and Propaganda

01/26/2024

GEC Releases Special Report: More than a Century of Antisemitism: How Successive Occupants of the Kremlin Have Used Antisemitism to Spread Disinformation and Propaganda 01/26/2024 11:00 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Today, the U.S. Department of State’s Global Engagement Center released a new report detailing the ways in which the Tsarist and Soviet denizens of the Kremlin — and now Vladimir Putin and his regime — have for over a century exploited antisemitism in disinformation and propaganda campaigns designed to discredit, divide, and weaken perceived adversaries at home and abroad. For example, in an attempt to justify Russia’s unjustifiable full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin falsely portrays Ukraine and its supporters as Nazis, demonizes the Jewish identity of Ukraine’s president, attacks Jews as “the worst Nazis,” and engages in reprehensible Holocaust distortion. Today’s Kremlin builds upon a long and ugly history of exploiting antisemitism, dating back to the Tsarist Security Service’s creation and dissemination of the notorious forgery, Protocols of the Elders of Zion. The Soviet Union then expanded on these tactics by propagating antisemitic lies to cement totalitarian control. This report details these historical attempts to weaponize antisemitism and exposes how the contemporary Kremlin’s intelligence services and mouthpieces spread antisemitic propaganda and disinformation across the globe to further its malign agenda. Read the full report here: https://www.state.gov/more-than-a-century-of-antisemitism-how-successive-occupants-of-the-kremlin-have-used-antisemitism/. For questions, please reach out to the Global Engagement Center at GECMediaContacts@State.gov.

Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Verma’s Trip to Australia, Fiji, and Indonesia

01/26/2024

Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Verma’s Trip to Australia, Fiji, and Indonesia 01/26/2024 12:58 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard R. Verma will travel to Suva, Fiji; Canberra, Australia; Sydney, Australia; and Jakarta, Indonesia, from January 29 to February 2.  During his visit, Deputy Secretary Verma will focus on deepening critical relationships with U.S. allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.  He will also advance the United States affirmative vision for a secure and inclusive cyberspace while discussing efforts to meet demand for cyber and digital capacity building in the region. In Fiji and Australia, U.S. Ambassador at Large for Cyberspace and Digital Policy Nathaniel C. Fick will accompany Deputy Secretary Verma.  In Suva, they will meet with government officials and digital industry representatives to discuss secure and trusted information and communications technology infrastructure. In Canberra, Deputy Secretary Verma will meet with senior Australian officials to coordinate U.S.-Australia efforts in the Indo-Pacific, including on cyber initiatives.  The Deputy Secretary will also meet with U.S. Embassy staff to hear their perspectives on what is important to them, as well as the salient bilateral and regional issues. In Sydney, Deputy Secretary Verma and Ambassador Fick will meet with academic and private sector leaders to enhance cooperation on emerging technologies and advanced telecommunications for the benefit of the region. In Jakarta, following the recent upgrade of U.S.-Indonesia ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Deputy Secretary Verma will meet senior Indonesian officials to discuss how to further capitalize on the strong U.S.-Indonesia partnership.  He will deliver remarks at U.S. Embassy Jakarta’s premier cultural center @america, highlighting the United States’ continuing commitment to the Indo-Pacific region as we commemorate the two-year anniversary of the Indo-Pacific Strategy.  He will also discuss our ongoing investment in Indonesia and the region’s success through initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), the Millenium Challenge Corporation Compacts, and a range of projects funded by the Development Finance Corporation. Also, while in Jakarta, as part of the ongoing U.S. commitment as a Comprehensive Strategic Partner to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Deputy Secretary also will meet with several of the permanent representatives to ASEAN to highlight the U.S. support for the Laos Chair Year, including through cooperation on digital economy, artificial intelligence, and cyber issues and to reaffirm ASEAN centrality.

Condemning the Attacks Damaging Civilian Infrastructure in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region

01/26/2024

Condemning the Attacks Damaging Civilian Infrastructure in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region 01/26/2024 01:30 PM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States condemns yesterday’s attack by Iran-aligned militia groups in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR), which damaged civilian infrastructure and has jeopardized access to power throughout the IKR. Once again, we stand with our partners in Iraq, including the IKR, against these outrageous and senseless actions, and we urge Iraqi authorities to investigate and bring to justice those who are responsible. The United States will continue to work with the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government in support of Iraqi sovereignty and security.

Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Russo Travels to Colorado and Montana

01/26/2024

Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Russo Travels to Colorado and Montana 01/26/2024 03:17 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs (GPA) Bill Russo will travel to Denver, Colorado, as well as Missoula, Flathead Indian Reservation, Helena, and Great Falls, Montana, January 28-31.  During this visit, Assistant Secretary Russo will emphasize the vital role the American public has in shaping U.S. foreign policy and highlight the Administration’s commitment to crafting foreign policy that delivers for the American people. In Denver, Assistant Secretary Russo will meet with local officials, city leaders, and students and faculty from the University of Denver and Metropolitan State University.  He will also engage Biennial of the Americas and Denver Council on Foreign Relations leadership. In Montana, Assistant Secretary Russo will participate in a series of events in collaboration with the University of Montana’s Mansfield Center, including a number of Mansfield Dialogues community events and a Mansfield Lecture in Great Falls.   In addition, Assistant Secretary Russo will meet with the Tribal Council of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, community and local government leaders, and will engage with students, faculty, and U.S. State Department exchange alumni, including alumni of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Professional Fellows Program, to highlight the role of young people in global affairs. Follow along on Twitter/X at @GPA_AS for more updates from the trip.

Under Secretary Zeya’s Travel to Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire

01/26/2024

Under Secretary Zeya’s Travel to Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire 01/26/2024 03:39 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya will travel to Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria, and Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire from January 27 to February 3, 2024. In Abuja, Under Secretary Zeya will deepen cooperation on democracy, civilian security, and humanitarian efforts with senior government officials.  Additionally, she will meet with religious leaders, civil society representatives, and labor leaders on freedom of expression and religion, and the protection of worker and human rights.  In Lagos, the Under Secretary will engage civil society and private sector entities on a range of issues related to human rights, civilian security, and anti-corruption efforts. In Abidjan, Under Secretary Zeya will give closing remarks at the Africa Cup of Nations Youth Forum on Sport Trafficking and Exploitation in Africa, raising awareness about the dangers of irregular migration and combatting trafficking in persons.  In meetings with government ministers, religious leaders, civil society representatives, and multilateral organizations, the Under Secretary will advance partnerships and cooperation on democracy, governance, human rights, and regional security, in particular through the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability. For further information, please follow @UnderSecStateJ .

Under Secretary Jenkins Travels to Rabat and Marrakech

01/26/2024

Under Secretary Jenkins Travels to Rabat and Marrakech 01/26/2024 06:24 PM EST HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Under Secretary Jenkins Travels to Rabat and Marrakech hide Under Secretary Jenkins Travels to Rabat and Marrakech Media Note January 26, 2024 Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Ambassador Bonnie D. Jenkins will travel to Rabat and Marrakech, Morocco, January 29 – February 2 as head of the U.S. Delegation to the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) African Political Meeting and Outreach Event.  The PSI event is co-chaired by Under Secretary Jenkins and the Moroccan Director for African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates Redouane Houssaini, and aims to encourage African countries to endorse the PSI, an enduring global effort to stop the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, their delivery systems, and related items.  At this PSI event – the largest ever held on the African continent – Under Secretary Jenkins will deliver the U.S. National Statement, hold bilateral meetings with counterparts from participating states, and attend a live chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense demonstration that showcases capacity building opportunities for PSI partners. Visit here to learn more about the PSI.  While in Rabat, the Under Secretary will hold a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita to discuss U.S.-Morocco bilateral cooperation and security in Africa. Tags Africa Arms Control and Nonproliferation Bureau of African Affairs Morocco Office of the Spokesperson Official International Travel Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

01/27/2024

International Holocaust Remembrance Day 01/27/2024 08:23 AM EST The Secretary of State Today, and every day, we mourn the six million Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust by the Nazis and their collaborators, as well as the Roma, Sinti, political opponents, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ individuals, and others persecuted and murdered by the Nazi regime.  The Holocaust began with words – with labeling others as different, “less than,” a threat. Today, we hear disturbing words again in the midst of rising antisemitism.  To honor the victims of the Nazis, we reaffirm our commitment to combating Holocaust denial and distortion by speaking out, promoting accurate Holocaust education, and by standing against hate in all its forms.  The truth of the Holocaust is not up for debate, and neither is the relevance of the admonition of those who endured its horrors: “never again.” The United States stands with Holocaust victims, their families, and their descendants.  We remember and we carry forward the legacy of survivors and their families when we apply the lessons of the Holocaust to combat antisemitism and other forms of intolerance.  We do so as we work with people of conscience everywhere to build a world where hate has no place.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

01/27/2024

International Holocaust Remembrance Day 01/27/2024 08:23 AM EST The Secretary of State Today, and every day, we mourn the six million Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust by the Nazis and their collaborators, as well as the Roma, Sinti, political opponents, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ individuals, and others persecuted and murdered by the Nazi regime.  The Holocaust began with words – with labeling others as different, “less than,” a threat. Today, we hear disturbing words again in the midst of rising antisemitism.  To honor the victims of the Nazis, we reaffirm our commitment to combating Holocaust denial and distortion by speaking out, promoting accurate Holocaust education, and by standing against hate in all its forms.  The truth of the Holocaust is not up for debate, and neither is the relevance of the admonition of those who endured its horrors: “never again.” The United States stands with Holocaust victims, their families, and their descendants.  We remember and we carry forward the legacy of survivors and their families when we apply the lessons of the Holocaust to combat antisemitism and other forms of intolerance.  We do so as we work with people of conscience everywhere to build a world where hate has no place.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

01/27/2024

International Holocaust Remembrance Day 01/27/2024 08:23 AM EST The Secretary of State Today, and every day, we mourn the six million Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust by the Nazis and their collaborators, as well as the Roma, Sinti, political opponents, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ individuals, and others persecuted and murdered by the Nazi regime.  The Holocaust began with words – with labeling others as different, “less than,” a threat. Today, we hear disturbing words again in the midst of rising antisemitism.  To honor the victims of the Nazis, we reaffirm our commitment to combating Holocaust denial and distortion by speaking out, promoting accurate Holocaust education, and by standing against hate in all its forms.  The truth of the Holocaust is not up for debate, and neither is the relevance of the admonition of those who endured its horrors: “never again.” The United States stands with Holocaust victims, their families, and their descendants.  We remember and we carry forward the legacy of survivors and their families when we apply the lessons of the Holocaust to combat antisemitism and other forms of intolerance.  We do so as we work with people of conscience everywhere to build a world where hate has no place.

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Türkiye

01/27/2024

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Türkiye 01/27/2024 09:42 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland will travel to Ankara, Türkiye January 28-29.  While in Ankara, Acting Deputy Secretary Nuland will meet with senior government officials and business leaders to discuss the full range of bilateral, regional, and global issues on which we work together.

Venezuelan Supreme Court Rulings and the Barbados Agreement

01/27/2024

Venezuelan Supreme Court Rulings and the Barbados Agreement 01/27/2024 09:51 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The Venezuelan Supreme Court’s January 26 decision to disqualify democratic opposition primary winner Maria Corina Machado is inconsistent with the commitment by Nicolás Maduro’s representatives to hold a competitive Venezuelan presidential election in 2024.  The reinstatement process lacked basic elements, as Machado neither received a copy of the allegations against her nor was afforded the opportunity to respond to those allegations. This deeply concerning decision runs contrary to the commitments made by Maduro and his representatives under the Barbados electoral roadmap agreement to allow all parties to select their candidates for the presidential election.  The United States is currently reviewing our Venezuela sanctions policy, based on this development and the recent political targeting of democratic opposition candidates and civil society.

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Türkiye

01/27/2024

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Türkiye 01/27/2024 09:42 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland will travel to Ankara, Türkiye January 28-29.  While in Ankara, Acting Deputy Secretary Nuland will meet with senior government officials and business leaders to discuss the full range of bilateral, regional, and global issues on which we work together.

United States Reiterates Support for Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti

01/27/2024

United States Reiterates Support for Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti 01/27/2024 04:47 PM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States’ commitment to the Haitian people remains unwavering.  We reaffirm our support of ongoing international efforts to deploy a Multinational Security Support mission for Haiti, as requested by Haiti and authorized by UN Security Council Resolution 2699, and renew our calls for the international community to urgently provide support for this mission. The United States acknowledges the ruling by the Republic of Kenya’s High Court regarding the deployment of Kenyan police in support of the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti and the Government of Kenya’s stated intent to challenge this ruling. It is urgent that the international community respond to the unprecedented levels of gang violence and destabilizing forces preying upon the Haitian people.  At the same time, we call for the restoration of democratic order through an inclusive political process in Haiti.  We continue to urge Haitian stakeholders to reach consensus on power-sharing and inclusive governance.  The only legitimate path to long-term peace and stability is through free and fair elections.

Designation of Ahmad Mohammad Harun Under the War Crimes Rewards Program

01/29/2024

Designation of Ahmad Mohammad Harun Under the War Crimes Rewards Program 01/29/2024 09:55 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The Department of State is today designating Sudan’s Former Minister of State for the Interior under the Omar al Bashir regime, Ahmad Mohammad Harun, under the War Crimes Rewards Program.  Harun is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes and crimes against humanity allegedly committed in Darfur between 2003 and 2004.  During this time, Harun stands accused of recruiting, mobilizing, funding, and arming the notorious Janjaweed militia, a precursor to the Rapid Support Forces, and participating in atrocities, including murder, rape, torture, forcible transfer of population, persecution, and other inhumane acts.  It is critical that Harun be found and that he appear before the ICC to face the charges against him.    Lasting peace in Sudan requires justice for victims and accountability for those responsible for human rights abuses and violations, both past and present.  There is a clear and direct connection between impunity for abuses under the Bashir regime, including those of which Harun is accused, and the violence in Darfur today.  Indeed, we are seeing some of the same perpetrators victimizing some of the same communities in ways that are an ominous reminder of the horror unleashed twenty years ago.  We welcome the ICC Prosecutor’s announcement that he is investigating the ongoing violence and urge all States to cooperate with the ICC in its Darfur investigation.   Through the War Crimes Rewards Program, the Department offers rewards of up to $5 million for information that leads to the arrest, transfer, or conviction of certain foreign individuals who are wanted for war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.  The Program is one of the Department’s foremost tools in fighting impunity for atrocity crimes worldwide and supporting justice institutions, having contributed to more than 20 cases and paid out more than $8 million over its lifetime.  Those with information about Harun’s whereabouts should contact the War Crimes Rewards Program by WhatsApp or text message at 202-975-5468 or by email at wcrp@state.gov.  The identity of anyone providing information will be kept strictly confidential absent that person’s express permission.  The Program can also consider recommendations from the ICC based on information provided directly to the Court.  For more information on the War Crimes Rewards Program, visit the Department’s War Crimes Rewards website. Tags Bureau of African Affairs Office of Global Criminal Justice Office of the Spokesperson Sudan War Crimes

Taking Actions to Combat the Iranian Regime’s Transnational Repression

01/29/2024

Taking Actions to Combat the Iranian Regime’s Transnational Repression 01/29/2024 09:44 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States and United Kingdom are taking joint action today to impose sanctions on 11 individuals for their connection to a criminal network that has targeted foreign dissidents and Iranian regime opponents for assassination at the behest of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). The individuals designated today are believed to be involved in a network that has carried out acts of transnational repression, including numerous assassinations and kidnappings, and has also plotted operations in the United States. The Department of the Treasury is taking this action in conjunction with the unsealing of an indictment by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The United States will continue to use all available tools to hold the Iranian regime accountable for its attempts to extend its repression internationally as well as its ongoing human rights abuses against its own people and its actions to sow instability in the Middle East region and beyond. The MOIS is a U.S.-designated entity.  The Department of the Treasury is taking these actions pursuant to Executive Order 13553, which blocks property of certain persons with respect to serious human rights abuses by the government of Iran.  For more information on this designation, see Treasury’s press release. Tags Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Division for Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions Iran Office of the Spokesperson Sanctions

Assistant Secretary O’Brien’s Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina

01/29/2024

Assistant Secretary O’Brien’s Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina 01/29/2024 11:16 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs James C. O’Brien will travel to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, February 1-3, 2024. His visit will emphasize the strong partnership between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina and reaffirm the United States’ support for the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. While in Sarajevo, Assistant Secretary O’Brien will meet with senior government officials to underscore that functional, efficient, and accountable democratic institutions at all levels of government are essential to a better future for all citizens, in both the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska. Assistant Secretary O’Brien will also meet with High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina Christian Schmidt and will deliver a keynote address on U.S. priorities in the region at the University of Sarajevo. Tags Bosnia and Herzegovina Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Office of the Spokesperson Official International Travel

Assistant Secretary O’Brien’s Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina

01/29/2024

Assistant Secretary O’Brien’s Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina 01/29/2024 11:16 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs James C. O’Brien will travel to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, February 1-3, 2024. His visit will emphasize the strong partnership between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina and reaffirm the United States’ support for the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. While in Sarajevo, Assistant Secretary O’Brien will meet with senior government officials to underscore that functional, efficient, and accountable democratic institutions at all levels of government are essential to a better future for all citizens, in both the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska. Assistant Secretary O’Brien will also meet with High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina Christian Schmidt and will deliver a keynote address on U.S. priorities in the region at the University of Sarajevo. Tags Bosnia and Herzegovina Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Office of the Spokesperson Official International Travel

Taking Financial Measures Against Iraqi Bank and Designating its Owner

01/29/2024

Taking Financial Measures Against Iraqi Bank and Designating its Owner 01/29/2024 11:31 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The U.S. Department of the Treasury is today taking action to protect the international financial system from being exploited by money launderers and terrorist financiers connected to Iran’s malign activities.  Specifically, Treasury is identifying Iraq’s Al-Huda Bank as a foreign financial institution of primary money laundering concern and proposing to sever Al-Huda Bank from accessing the U.S. financial system.  Treasury is also designating the owner and head of Al-Huda Bank, Hamad al-Moussawi, for his support to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps-Qods Force and Iran-aligned militia groups in Iraq. The United States will continue to work with our partners in Iraq and around the world to support the economic aspirations of the Iraqi people. It is vital that we work together to safeguard the Iraqi financial system from malign actors like Al-Huda Bank and its foreign sponsors that fuel violence which threatens the lives and livelihood of U.S. and Iraqi citizens alike. The Department of the Treasury action was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13224, as amended.  For more information on this designation, see Treasury’s press release. Tags Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Counterterrorism Division for Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions Iraq Office of the Spokesperson Sanctions

Secretary Blinken and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley Before Their Meeting

01/29/2024

Secretary Blinken and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley Before Their Meeting 01/29/2024 12:54 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley Washington, DC Thomas Jefferson Room SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Very good.  Well, good morning, everyone.  And it’s a great pleasure for me to receive Prime Minister Rowley here in Washington, especially after the very warm hospitality I was shown in Port of Spain last year.  Trinidad and Tobago is a vital partner for the United States, and we are working together in many areas, including to advance energy security and climate resilience – something that the people of Trinidad and Tobago feel very strongly.  And we’re doing this, in particular, under the United States-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis, which is a vital initiative that our countries are engaged in. We’re partnering as well to fight violent crime and firearms trafficking, and this is a priority for the work that we’re doing, as well as of course seeking and building up prosperity and opportunity in the region as a whole.  We have vital work that we’re doing as well to address other regional challenges, whether it’s in Venezuela or whether it’s in Haiti.  But in all of these areas and others, including the strengthening of our own bilateral ties, which I’ve been very, very pleased to see over the last couple of years, this really is a vital partnership.  And I’m just grateful, Prime Minister, to have you here in Washington, especially after the very both memorable and positive visit to Port of Spain last year.  So welcome. PRIME MINISTER ROWLEY:  Thank you very much, Secretary Blinken.  I am very pleased that in a very hectic schedule that you are engaged in that you would have made the time to receive my delegation.  And the relationship between the United States, Trinidad and Tobago, and the wider CARICOM, it’s extremely important to us.  And we keep emphasizing that it’s also important to the United States.  The U.S., our major trading partner, and with a lot of our citizens residing in and working and living in the United States – I think every time I go to an office on these trips, I meet some national from Trinidad and Tobago, or whose parentage is of Trinidad and Tobago, in the United States.  We are very proud of the international obligations that we meet.  And we keep emphasizing that we might be small, but we are not insignificant.  And we acknowledge our trading relations, our diplomatic situations, and the challenges in the Caribbean that you mention.  So, in recent years, we are happy that we’ve been – we have raised issues with you, and you have in fact been taking them on board.  The safety and security challenges are extremely important to us, and the energy security matters of day-to-day conversations.  And we believe that you are part of that, and thanks for being a part of it. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  Thanks, everyone. Tags Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State Trinidad and Tobago U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis

Secretary Blinken and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley Before Their Meeting

01/29/2024

Secretary Blinken and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley Before Their Meeting 01/29/2024 12:54 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley Washington, DC Thomas Jefferson Room SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Very good.  Well, good morning, everyone.  And it’s a great pleasure for me to receive Prime Minister Rowley here in Washington, especially after the very warm hospitality I was shown in Port of Spain last year.  Trinidad and Tobago is a vital partner for the United States, and we are working together in many areas, including to advance energy security and climate resilience – something that the people of Trinidad and Tobago feel very strongly.  And we’re doing this, in particular, under the United States-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis, which is a vital initiative that our countries are engaged in. We’re partnering as well to fight violent crime and firearms trafficking, and this is a priority for the work that we’re doing, as well as of course seeking and building up prosperity and opportunity in the region as a whole.  We have vital work that we’re doing as well to address other regional challenges, whether it’s in Venezuela or whether it’s in Haiti.  But in all of these areas and others, including the strengthening of our own bilateral ties, which I’ve been very, very pleased to see over the last couple of years, this really is a vital partnership.  And I’m just grateful, Prime Minister, to have you here in Washington, especially after the very both memorable and positive visit to Port of Spain last year.  So welcome. PRIME MINISTER ROWLEY:  Thank you very much, Secretary Blinken.  I am very pleased that in a very hectic schedule that you are engaged in that you would have made the time to receive my delegation.  And the relationship between the United States, Trinidad and Tobago, and the wider CARICOM, it’s extremely important to us.  And we keep emphasizing that it’s also important to the United States.  The U.S., our major trading partner, and with a lot of our citizens residing in and working and living in the United States – I think every time I go to an office on these trips, I meet some national from Trinidad and Tobago, or whose parentage is of Trinidad and Tobago, in the United States.  We are very proud of the international obligations that we meet.  And we keep emphasizing that we might be small, but we are not insignificant.  And we acknowledge our trading relations, our diplomatic situations, and the challenges in the Caribbean that you mention.  So, in recent years, we are happy that we’ve been – we have raised issues with you, and you have in fact been taking them on board.  The safety and security challenges are extremely important to us, and the energy security matters of day-to-day conversations.  And we believe that you are part of that, and thanks for being a part of it. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  Thanks, everyone. Tags Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State Trinidad and Tobago U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis

Ambassador (Ret.) McCarthy Leads US Delegation at Negotiating Session on UN Cybercrime Convention

01/29/2024

Ambassador (Ret.) McCarthy Leads US Delegation at Negotiating Session on UN Cybercrime Convention 01/29/2024 02:10 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The Ad Hoc Committee (AHC) to elaborate a UN cybercrime convention will convene at the United Nations in New York January 29 through February 9.  This is the seventh and concluding session of negotiations to finalize the convention.  Ambassador (ret.) Deborah McCarthy will lead the U.S. delegation and serve as lead negotiator for the session.  The U.S. delegation includes officials from the Departments of State and Justice. The United States is committed to adopting a consensus-based criminal justice instrument for a limited set of crimes that advances international cooperation while ensuring strong human rights protections and safeguards.  The convention would allow for enhanced international cooperation and increased capacity to combat cybercrime. For further information, please e-mail INL-PAPD@state.gov or follow INL on Twitter and Instagram @StateINL.  Further details about AHC are available at the UN Cybercrime Ad Hoc Committee website.  Tags Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy Cyber Issues Cyber Security Office of the Spokesperson Official Domestic Travel United Nations

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Rowley

01/29/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Rowley 01/29/2024 03:16 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Dr. Keith Rowley today in Washington, D.C. Secretary Blinken and Prime Minister Rowley reaffirmed the U.S.-Trinidad and Tobago joint commitment to citizen security, including through addressing illicit firearms trafficking. The Secretary and the Prime Minister also discussed further collaboration on regional challenges, cyber security, energy security, and climate adaptation and resilience. Tags Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State Trinidad and Tobago

Secretary Blinken Travels to Africa

01/29/2024

The Week at State  |  January 22-28 In “The Week at State,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to Africa, with stops in Cabo Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, and Angola to underscore that African countries are essential U.S. partners in our shared future. Secretary Blinken Travels to Africa During his January 21-25 trip to Africa, Secretary Blinken highlighted how the United States has accelerated our partnerships with African countries since the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in December 2022, including in areas such as climate, food, and health security. Cabo Verde Secretary Blinken congratulated Prime Minister Silva on Cabo Verde’s malaria-free certification by the World Health Organization and its selection as eligible to develop a Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact for the purpose of regional economic integration.   He also visited the Port of Praia, which was renovated and expanded through MCC investments that boosted port competitiveness and created jobs. Côte d’Ivoire Secretary Blinken met with Ivorian President Ouattara and Foreign Minister Kacou Houadja Leon Adom to discuss how the U.S. is delivering on commitments made during the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit and advancing our growing partnership. “We’re here for a very simple reason, because America and Africa’s futures, their peoples, their prosperity are linked, linked and joined as never before,” Secretary Blinken said after their meeting.  Nigeria In Abuja, the Secretary met with President Tinubu to discuss joint efforts to build a more prosperous and secure future. In Lagos, the Secretary had the opportunity to see firsthand African innovations that present exciting investment opportunities and drive digital transformation. He met with entrepreneurs who are using AI and technology to solve big problems in their communities, he opened the new American Corner, and he toured a clinical research center that provides HIV/AIDS treatment through the support of PEPFAR. Angola Secretary Blinken met with Angola’s President Lourenço to discuss shared concerns about peace and security in the region and the potential to utilize the Lobito Corridor to better integrate Angola into the global economy. “The U.S. is making a series of investments that will link Angola, Zambia, and the DRC and better connect Africa to global markets,” the Secretary said on Twitter/X. Alliances and Partnerships NATO Welcomes Sweden The U.S. welcomed Turkish President Erdogan’s signature of the Articles of Ratification for Sweden’s NATO membership. “We look forward to receiving the instruments in Washington and welcoming Sweden as NATO’s 32nd Ally. Sweden and the Alliance are stronger together,” Secretary Blinken said on Twitter/X. Human Rights Commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day State Department colleagues like Michelle Schein, who are descendants or family members of Holocaust survivors, shared their stories on January 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The United States stands with Holocaust victims, their families, and their descendants. To honor the victims of the Nazis, we reaffirm our commitment to combating Holocaust denial and distortion by speaking out, promoting accurate Holocaust education, and by standing against hate in all its forms.  Report Released on Kremlin’s Use of Anti-Semitism  A new report from the State Department’s Global Engagement Center details the ways in which the Tsarist and Soviet denizens of the Kremlin — and now Vladimir Putin and his regime — have for over a century exploited antisemitism in disinformation and propaganda campaigns designed to discredit, divide, and weaken perceived adversaries at home and abroad. Global Health PEPFAR Celebrates its 21st Anniversary Our PEPFAR initiatives have directly saved over 25 million lives in the fight against HIV/AIDS over the past 20 years. Alongside our partner countries, we will continue that progress and eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. “Extending the @PEPFAR program is literally a matter of saving more lives,” Secretary Blinken said from Lagos on Twitter/X. “The stakes are real and they couldn’t be higher.” This Week January 29: Secretary Blinken meets with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg Looking Ahead February 1: Black History Month begins  February 2: World Wetlands Day February 14-16: Munich Security Conference Useful links Travel advisories and updates on international travel for U.S. Citizens from the Department of State Did you know that you can invite a representative from the Department of State to speak at your school, business, agency or organization? Learn about what we do through the firsthand experience of one of our representatives.  Read More at State.gov Manage Subscriptions  |  Unsubscribe All  |  Help Privacy Policy

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a Joint Press Availability

01/29/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a Joint Press Availability 01/29/2024 07:24 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  First, let me say what a pleasure it is as always to have Secretary General Stoltenberg here in Washington at the State Department.  Let me first note the drone attack yesterday by Iranian-backed militia on U.S. forces in Jordan.  It killed three of our soldiers, wounded many others. First and foremost, I’m thinking of those who lost their lives, those who are wounded, their family members, and their friends.  Every day we have our men and women in uniform around the world who are putting their lives on the line for our security, for our freedom.  I am as always humbled by their courage and their sacrifice.  From the outset, we have been clear in warning that anyone looking to take advantage of conflict in the Middle East and try to expand it:  Don’t do it.  We’ve taken steps to defend ourselves and to defend our partners as well as to prevent escalation.  And the President has been crystal clear:  We will respond decisively to any aggression, and we will hold responsible the people who attacked our troops.  We will do so at a time and a place of our choosing.  At the same time, we remain focused on our core objectives in the region, both in terms of the conflict in Gaza and broader efforts to build truly durable peace and security.  To that end, I had an opportunity to meet today with the prime minister and foreign minister of Qatar on the ongoing effort to get hostages out and to create an extended pause.  This is critical to them being able to get to the formula that we’ve been talking about for putting a durable end to the cycle of violence that we’ve seen in the region for generation after generation and the opportunity that exists to actually achieve it:  an integrated Israel with relations with all of its neighbors, security commitments, assurances that it needs to make sure that it can move forward in peace and security; a Palestinian Authority that’s reformed, and a clear pathway to a Palestinian state.  That vision and its realization can dramatically change the security circumstance for Israel, for the Palestinians, for all of our partners in the region, and at the same time isolate the small number of actors who don’t want to get there, who have a very different vision for what the future is – notably Iran – a different vision that we see playing out every single day, either directly by Iran or by its proxies.  But the way to durable security is through a region that’s more integrated, where the relations among its countries are normalized, and where the question of the rights of Palestinians is finally answered.  Jens and I had an opportunity today, of course, to talk about the NATO Summit and to talk about other matters relating to our Alliance.  And I have to say that once again we see that NATO is advancing with a sense of urgency and a strong sense not only of unity of purpose but unity of action.  Just at the very end of last week, Türkiye approved Sweden’s accession to NATO.  Sweden brings tremendous capabilities to the Alliance in every domain.  Hungary now will have to act in order to complete the process of Sweden’s accession, but I fully anticipate that that will happen in the weeks ahead when Hungary’s parliament returns.  Now, the accession of both Finland and Sweden was far from inevitable.  In fact, if you go back a little over two years, no one was talking about it.  But in the wake of Moscow’s renewed aggression against Ukraine, both countries felt that it was clearly in their interest to defend their people and defend their sovereignty by joining the Alliance.  I think the process that we’ve seen in actually record time – first with Finland and now with Sweden – demonstrates that NATO’s door is open, remains open, including to Ukraine – which will become a member of NATO.  This also underscores one of the many ways in which Putin’s aggression against Ukraine has been an abject strategic failure for Russia, how it has in fact precipitated the very things that Putin sought to prevent.  He wanted to shrink NATO; it is now larger and getting larger still.  He wanted to weaken NATO; it is stronger than it’s ever been.  All of this will, I think, come to an important inflection point when we get to the NATO Summit – the historic NATO Summit that we are very honored to host in Washington in July.  This is going to be, I think, the most ambitious summit since the end of the Cold War, showing NATO’s adaptation to new challenges and new threats, whether it’s Russia, whether it’s in very different ways the PRC, in the cyber domain, terrorism.  And what you’re seeing is an Alliance that, as I said, is coming together in new ways and in stronger ways to make sure that it can deal effectively with those challenges.  And even as we’re celebrating when we get to the NATO Summit 75 years of its history, the real focus of the summit is going to be on the next 75 years and everything NATO has done to adapt and make itself, as it has been, indispensable to the defense and security of its members. Some of those capabilities and some of that strength was on display as we kicked off the largest NATO military exercises since the end of the Cold War, Steadfast Defender, 90,000 personnel who are sending a very clear message:  This Alliance is ready and it is able to defend every square inch of NATO territory. We discussed with the secretary general NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine.  Last week, NATO signed a $1.2 billion contract to produce 220,000 artillery shells.  That’s going to help Allies restock their own arsenals, and it complements efforts by the United States, by the European Union, by Ukraine, to ramp up defense production.  This will make NATO itself and all Allies much more resilient for future threats as we move forward. As all of us take on these challenges – and I want to emphasize in the case of Ukraine we’ve seen this very, very clearly – there’s probably never been a better example of burden sharing in the history of the Alliance and the partnerships that we have with different countries than we see when it comes to Ukraine.  As I’ve mentioned before, the support that the United States has provided to Ukraine has been exceptional, about $75 billion over the last couple of years.  But our partners and allies, notably our core NATO Allies, have provided more than $110 billion over that same period of time.  And whether it’s military support, whether it’s economic support, whether it’s humanitarian support, the burden sharing that we’ve seen in the case of Ukraine has been more than exemplary. But in order to make sure that that continues, that all of us step up and do what’s necessary to continue to ensure that Ukraine knows success and Russia knows strategic failure, it is vital that Congress pass the supplemental budget request that the President has put before it.  Without it, simply put, everything that Ukrainians achieved and that we’ve helped them achieve will be in jeopardy.  And absent that supplemental, we’re going to be sending a strong and wrong message to all of our adversaries that we are not serious about the defense of freedom, the defense of democracy.  And it will simply reinforce for Vladimir Putin that he can somehow outlast Ukraine and outlast us.  Well, that’s not going to be the case.  We have to make sure that it’s not the case. Finally, let me just say that we have a lot of work to do over the next few months to prepare for the summit.  I think we had today very good sessions with the secretary general, and we’ll be meeting shortly with the National Security Advisor and the Secretary of Defense over at the Pentagon to continue that work.  I look forward to that and look forward to the weeks and months ahead as we prepare for NATO Summit. Jens, over to you. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Thanks so much, Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, and thank you for hosting me here in Washington.  It is always good to meet with you and even more important given the dangers that we face.  So let me begin by offering my deepest condolences for the U.S. troops killed and wounded in yesterday’s drone attack in Jordan.  We see Iran continue to destabilize the region.  Iran also bears the responsibility for backing terrorists who attack ships in the Red Sea.  Tehran’s behavior reminds us of what a world without rules look like – unpredictable and dangerous, a world where our security becomes more expensive. I welcome your tireless diplomacy, Secretary Blinken, to prevent further escalation of the war in Gaza, your efforts to alleviate human suffering, and your hard work towards a peaceful resolution.  Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine is nearing the two-year mark, and a Russian victory would embolden Iran, North Korea, and China.  That matters for Europe’s security and it matters for America’s security, so supporting Ukraine serves U.S. interests.  For a tiny fraction of annual defense spending, the United States has helped Ukraine destroy a major part of Russia’s combat capacity without placing a single American soldier in harm’s way. I welcome the clear commitment from President Biden and you to sustain U.S. support to Ukraine and to work with Congress to achieve that.  As you said, other Allies are also stepping up.  In fact, what European NATO Allies and Canada provide in terms of military, financial, and humanitarian aid actually exceeds what the U.S. is providing.  So this is truly a joint effort by all NATO Allies from both sides of the Atlantic, and I am confident that all NATO Allies will continue to deliver, because supporting Ukraine is not charity.  It is an investment in our own security. President Putin started this war, and he could end it today if he stopped attacking a neighbor.  The war could also end if Ukraine stopped defending itself, but that would not mean peace.  It would mean Russian occupation, and occupation is not peace.  A just peace will require President Putin to realize that he will not get what he wants on the battlefield.  Moscow must accept a negotiated solution where Ukraine prevails as a sovereign independent nation.  What happens around the negotiating table is inextricably linked to the situation on the battlefield.  So if we want a lasting, just peace, we must provide Ukraine with more weapons and ammunition.  Weapons to Ukraine is the path to peace. Finally, we also discussed adapting our Alliance for the future.  In July, we will mark NATO’s 75th anniversary with a summit here in Washington.  And as you said, NATO is getting stronger and bigger.  Finland is already a member; Sweden will become a member soon.  And this demonstrates that Putin is getting exactly the opposite of what he wanted.  He wanted less NATO, a weak NATO; he’s getting a stronger and more united NATO, and a NATO with more members. At the summit we will take further steps to bolster NATO’s strength, invest more in our defense, and work with partners around the world.  Through NATO, the U.S. has more friends and allies than any other power.  Together we make up 50 percent of the world’s economic and military might.  China and Russia have nothing like NATO.  It is why they always try to undermine our unity.  In times of growing competition and rivalry, NATO makes the U.S. stronger and safer, and all of us more secure.  So Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, thank you again for your personal commitment to our transatlantic bond and to our shared security.  Thank you.  MR MILLER:  For the first question, Olivia Gazis with CBS. QUESTION:  Thank you, Matt, and thank you, Mr. Secretary.  To date, the United States has not publicly accused Iran of being directly involved in any attacks on U.S. forces, while noting the regime in Tehran supports and does not discourage its proxies from conducting these attacks.  This weekend’s lethal strike, Mr. Secretary, was one of at least 160 attacks on U.S. forces in the region by Iranian proxies since October.  Could earlier, stronger action by the United States against Iran and not just its militias have spared American lives? And secondly, if I may, Mr. Secretary, the UN secretary-general has appealed to the U.S. and 10 other countries who have suspended funding to UNRWA following revelations regarding allegations that at least a dozen of its 13,000 employees may have had involvement in the October 7th attacks, and more than a hundred more may have links to militant groups.  Under what circumstances and how soon could the U.S. consider resuming its support, considering this decision comes as Gaza is tipping into famine, and given your own personal and persistent appeals that humanitarian aid to Gazan civilians increase and not decrease?  Mr. Secretary General, welcome to Washington – welcome back.  The United States Congress, as you well know, remains at a political impasse regarding continued aid to Ukraine, and the European Union is likewise struggling politically to restart the flow of resources into Kyiv.  You yourself have said that Ukraine’s spring offensive didn’t lead to the results that many had hoped for.  So how long does Ukraine’s military have before the marginal successes that it did notch when it enjoyed steadier resources from the West risk being reversed by Russia, which seems to be enjoying growing support from the likes of North Korea and Iran? And briefly, Mr. Secretary General, I understand you’ll be meeting with American lawmakers during this trip to Washington, much as President Zelenskyy did when he was here late last year.  Is there a message you believe you can deliver to those lawmakers to make a timely difference in their decision-making?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Olivia, thank you very much, and thank you for also representing all your colleagues in making sure that you asked all their questions as well.  Appreciate it.  (Laughter.)  Look, first I think it’s very important to note that this is an incredibly volatile time in the Middle East.  I would argue that we’ve not seen a situation as dangerous as the one we’re facing now across the region since at least 1973, and arguably even before that.  And that is the environment in which we’re operating, and of course that was triggered by the horrific attacks of October 7th by Hamas against innocent men, women, and children.  We’ve made very, very clear from day one that we’re going to defend our people, we’re going to defend our personnel, we’re going to defend our interests, and that’s exactly what we’ve done.  We’ve taken action, and significant action, to deter groups, to degrade their capabilities in Iraq, in Syria, in Yemen.  At the same time, the President’s been very clear that we want to prevent broader escalation.  We want to prevent this conflict from spreading.  So we are intent on doing both – that is, standing up for our people when they’re attacked, while at the same time working every single day to prevent the conflict from growing and spreading.  And that’s exactly what we’ll continue to do.  It’s fundamentally what’s in the interests of the United States, what’s in the interests of the region, and I think what’s in the interests of the world. But I – the President said this, I think virtually from day one, to anyone who would try to use the crisis in the Middle East, the conflict in the Middle East, to sow further instability and use it as an excuse to attack our personnel:  We will respond, we will respond strongly, we will respond at a time and place of our choosing.  And obviously, I’m not going to telegraph what we might do in this instance or get ahead of the President, but I can, again, tell you that as President said yesterday, we will respond.  And that response could be multi-leveled, come in stages, and be sustained over time. With regard to UNRWA, the reports that we got last week – and UNRWA brought them to us – were deeply, deeply troubling.  It is imperative that UNRWA immediately, as it said it would, investigate; that it hold people accountable as necessary; and that it review its procedures.  I had a very good conversation with the Secretary-General of the United Nations Guterres last week when we were first made aware of these allegations, and we are going to be looking very hard at the steps that UNRWA takes, again, to make sure that this is fully and thoroughly investigated, that there’s clear accountability, and that as necessary, measures are put in place so that this doesn’t happen again, assuming the allegations are fully borne out.  Certainly we’ve not had the – we haven’t had the ability to investigate them ourselves, but they are highly, highly credible. At the same time, and as you indicated, UNRWA has played and continues to play an absolutely indispensable role in trying to make sure that men, women, and children who so desperately need assistance in Gaza actually get it.  And no one else can play the role that UNRWA’s been playing, certainly not in the near term.  No one has the reach, the capacity, the structure to do what UNRWA’s been doing.  And from our perspective, it’s important – more than important; imperative – that that role continue. So that only underscores the importance of UNRWA tackling this as quickly, as effectively, and as thoroughly as possible, and that’s what we’re looking for. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  I will meet the members of Congress tomorrow.  And of course, I’m looking forward to discussing many issues with them, including Ukraine.  I’m confident that all NATO Allies, also the United States, will continue to provide support to Ukraine because this is in our own security interests to do so.  It would be a tragedy for the Ukrainians if President Putin wins, but it will also make the world more dangerous and us, all of us, more insecure.  It will embolden other authoritarian leaders – not only Putin, President Putin, but also North Korea, Iran, and China – to use force.  Today it’s Ukraine; tomorrow it could be Taiwan. So therefore it is in our interests to ensure that Ukraine prevails as a sovereign, independent nation.  And the support we are providing is making a difference.  There’s a steady flow of ammunition and weapons from NATO Allies, and we have seen that this support has enabled the Ukrainians actually – to actually make big achievements. We have to remember where we started.  When this war started, or when the full-fledged invasion happened in February last year, or in 2022, most experts feared that Russia would control Kyiv within days and all of Ukraine within weeks.  The reality is that the Ukrainians were able to push back the Russian forces, and they have liberated 50 percent of the territory that Russia occupied at the beginning of the war.  They have been able to inflict heavy losses on the Russian armed forces – more than 300 casualties, thousands of armored vehicles have been destroyed, and the – and hundreds of planes.  And this is something we all have achieved without putting any NATO soldiers, U.S. soldiers or any other NATO soldiers, in harm’s way, but just by providing military support to Ukraine.  And Ukrainians have been able to open the western part of the Black Sea, to push the Russian Black Sea fleet to the east, so they’re now able to export grain and other commodities through the Black Sea. These are substantial achievements, and they continue to conduct deep strikes on Russian positions.  So this idea that it doesn’t help to help them – actually, Ukrainians have proved the opposite. Then of course, we all would like to have seen more progress in the offensive, but we should not underestimate the achievements the Ukrainians have already made.  And if we want an end to this war, the only way to end this war is to convince Putin that he will not win on the battlefield, and the only way to achieve that is to provide weapons to Ukraine from the United States, from other allies and partners.  So support to Ukraine is a good deal for NATO, for United States, for all of us. Then you asked me one more question, I think. QUESTION:  How long does Ukraine have before the (inaudible)? SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Well, the wars are by nature unpredictable, but the only thing we know is that – is that we need to continue to support them, and I’m confident that we will do so, and also when we meet here in Washington I am confident that Allies will again commit to sustain their support for Ukraine. MR MILLER:  Caitriona Perry with BBC. QUESTION:  Thank you.  Caitriona Perry with BBC News.  Mr. Secretary, if I could just follow up on my colleague’s comments there, you referred to a multistage response to yesterday’s attack.  Do you hold Iran directly responsible?  Do you consider the U.S. to be at war or on the verge of war at this point?  And what impact would any response have on the hostage ceasefire deal, which we’re told is at an advanced stage at this point?  And Mr. Secretary General, if I could ask you what NATO’s view is of the risk of the U.S. becoming involved in a direct conflict with Iran, what that means for NATO’s other priorities, including Ukraine.  And on the risk to further U.S. funding of Ukraine, can NATO and other allies, including the EU, keep Ukraine going without the U.S. if they need to do that?  And just on the point of EU and European countries, on the issue of Sweden and Hungary holding out on its ratification of membership, do you think – is that forthcoming soon, and what does that mean for future expansion of NATO?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  So the attacks that have taken place since October on our – on our forces, on our personnel in both Iraq and Syria have been conducted by groups that are aligned with Iran and indeed are supported by Iran, funded by Iran, equipped by Iran.  And I would note that the presence of our forces in both Iraq and Syria has nothing to do with Gaza, nothing to do with the conflict that’s taken place since October 7th, since the horrific attacks by Hamas, and everything to do with making sure that ISIS doesn’t re-emerge.  That’s why they’re there – something that Iran should share as an interest.  But on the contrary, the groups that are aligned with it have been conducting these attacks.  And as I mentioned, we do not seek conflict with Iran, we do not seek war with Iran, but we have and we will continue to defend our personnel and to take every action necessary to do that, including responding very vigorously to the attack that just took place.  And as I mentioned, I’m not going to get ahead of where the President is; I’m certainly not going to telegraph the response.  But as I mentioned, that response could well be multileveled, it could come in stages, and it could be sustained over time. At the same time, totally separately, we have been working to try to get hostages back out of Gaza and at the same time to get an extended pause in, and that effort is something that we are very, very actively pursuing right now with, of course, our partners in Qatar and Egypt as well as Israel.  Those who are trying to expand the conflict, broaden the conflict, escalate the conflict, they may say that they’re doing that somehow in response to Gaza, but every action they’re taking really is to perpetuate the conflict and to expand it.  They don’t have the interests of anyone in mind except their own interests, as they see them, and we’re determined, again, that we do everything possible not to see the conflict expand.  On the contrary, we’re working to end it, and end it in a way that the atrocities of October 7th never happen again as well as the suffering that we’ve seen on the part of Israelis and Palestinians alike doesn’t happen again.  That’s what we’re working toward and that’s where our focus is. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  First, on the issue of Swedish membership, I welcome, of course, that Türkiye now has finalized the ratification process with the decision in the parliament and also the signature from President Erdogan.  This demonstrates that Türkiye has followed up and delivered on what we all promised at the NATO Summit in Vilnius last summer, and it demonstrates that NATO’s door is open. I spoke last week with Prime Minister Orban of Hungary, because now Hungary is the only country that has not yet finalized the ratification process.  Prime Minister Orban was very clear that he supports Swedish membership of NATO.  He told me that the parliament in Hungary will reconvene at the end of February, and I expect also in line with what he has said that the parliament will then finalize the ratification shortly after that.  So I’m confident that Sweden will be a full member of the Alliance; that will make NATO stronger, it will send a clear message to Moscow, and it will demonstrate that it’s for NATO Allies to decide who’s going to be a member.  Moscow has no veto over NATO enlargement. Then on Iran, of course, Iran is responsible for destabilizing the whole region, threatening stability and security in the Middle East.  It is repressive at home and aggressive abroad.  We have seen this through many different attacks and also the different proxy groups, terrorist groups that Iran supports.  This underlines, of course, also the risk of escalation, and therefore I welcome the efforts by the United States to address these risks, and it is important that we also realize that Russia and Iran are now aligning more and more.  Russia is more and more dependent on drones from Iran – they actually built a new factory in Russia based on Iranian drone technology – and in return Russia is providing advanced technology to Iran.  So it demonstrates how authoritarian regimes are now coming closer and closer, and the only answer to that is that NATO Allies, all those countries that believe in democracy, have to stand together as we do in NATO. MR MILLER:  Alex Marquardt with CNN. QUESTION:  Thank you.  Mr. Secretary, if I could start with you, specifically about the hostage and ceasefire talks.  Can you share specifically what progress was made yesterday in Paris?  The Qatari prime minister after his meeting with you, he made it sound like a broad framework had been agreed to and it was being taken to Hamas for them to take a look at.  Do you believe that it is the language surrounding the end of hostilities that is the biggest sticking point?  And if you would also comment on how – to what extent Prime Minister Netanyahu’s comments about no Palestinian sovereignty, his leaked recording about criticizing Qatar, his ministers talking about resettling Gaza – to what extent has that complicated these conversations over an eventual deal? And Mr. Secretary General, following on some of my colleagues’ questions, how much do you think Ukraine’s war efforts are suffering because of the dwindling amount of U.S. aid and the uncertainty about whether more will be coming?  How can you convince the U.S. and others to continue sending advanced systems and large amounts of aid when they say that supply issues are growing?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  So first, of course, look, the less said the better in terms of where we are in pursuing a resumption of getting hostages out and back home with their families.  What I can tell you is this:  I think the work that’s been done, including just this weekend, is important and is hopeful in terms of seeing that process resume.  Recall that in the first go-around, we were able with our partners in Qatar and Egypt to get an agreement that resulted in the release of more than a hundred hostages, and I believe that the proposal that is on the table and that is shared among all of the critical actors – of course Israel, but also with Qatar and Egypt playing a critical role in mediating and working between Israel and Hamas – I believe the proposal is a strong one and a compelling one that, again, offers some hope that we can get back to this process.  But Hamas will have to make its own decisions.  I can just tell you that there is, again, strong, I would say, alignment among the countries involved that this is a good and strong proposal, and the work that was done over the weekend, including by CIA Director Bill Burns, was important in helping to advance this. As to comments that people make or that come out into the media, look, all I can tell you is this:  It’s my strong assessment that certainly Israel would very much like to see this process of hostages coming out resume.  It may be – well, I don’t want to speak for the Israelis, but I can certainly say from the perspective of the United States, because we of course have American citizens who are involved, this is at the very top of our list and has been from day one, and I believe that Israeli leadership and certainly Israeli society feels very, very strongly about it.  So we’ll see.  I can’t say anything more than that.  But I can say that very important, productive work has been done, and there is some real hope going forward. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  The United States has demonstrated leadership in mobilizing NATO Allies to support Ukraine, and I count on the United States, and I am confident that the United States will continue to do so because it is in the interest of the United States to ensure that President Putin does not win in Ukraine, and that we have to remember that this is something we have to do together, and – all NATO Allies and partners.  As Secretary Blinken just referred to, European Allies have actually provided more support in total for Ukraine than the United States.  I commend the United States, but we must not forget that this is a joint effort of all Allies, and if we put together what European Allies and Canada are providing, it actually exceeds the U.S. support.  So this is burden sharing, a joint effort by all Allies together.  And we do so in solidarity with Ukraine, but our support is not charity; it is an investment in our own security because we know that this is closely watched also in Beijing.  And we also see how China and Russia are aligning more and more, how China is propping up the Russian economy, including the defense production.  We see how China is repeating and spreading the same narrative about the war as Russia, how China has failed to condemn the illegal invasion of Ukraine.  And then we have to remember that just days before the full-scale invasion, China and Russia – President Xi and President Putin – signed a joint partnership agreement where they promised each other limitless partnership.  So I understand that many Allies are also concerned about China, but that’s not an argument for being less concerned about Ukraine.  Security is not regional; security is global.  What happens in Europe matters for Asia; what happens in Asia matters for Europe.  And today it’s Ukraine; tomorrow it can be Taiwan.  So therefore, it is in our interest to ensure that we provide the weapons and support they need.  And I’m confident that Allies will do so to – and to make sure that we can do that, we need the money, but we also need to ramp up production.  And I welcome what has been done in the United States.  Tomorrow I will go – on Wednesday, I will go to Alabama to – so a factory there where they are producing Javelins – Lockheed Martin – to recognize the importance of ramping up production.  We have to understand that the fact that European Allies are now investing more in defense is a good deal for the United States, demonstrating that NATO’s a good deal for the United States.  Just over the last two years, European NATO Allies have agreed contracts for the U.S. defense industry worth 120 billion U.S. dollars.  We need to do more, and therefore I welcome also that NATO has now, over the last months, actually agreed contracts worth $10 billion to ramp up production of ammunition, of interceptors for the Patriot batteries, and so on.  That enables to replenish our own stocks, but also to continue to provide support to Ukraine.  So we will – we are able, we have the will, and I’m confident that we’ll have the necessary decisions both in the United States and Europe to continue the support.  MR MILLER:  And for the final question, Anders Tvegard with Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation. QUESTION:  Thanks very much.  Mr. Secretary, your – the Biden administration’s policy on supporting Israel is unmistakable.  How would you look at the interim ruling by the World Court on Gaza?  And if I may, you talked about Congress and the funds.  What message does this send about U.S. leadership when your administration cannot – cannot or won’t hold words or promises?  I mean, you cannot fulfill them by action.  And Mr. Secretary General, Mr. Stoltenberg, you have now repeatedly warned about saying that China is watching the discussions over here about arming Ukraine.  How does this play out?  How will China use this?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Let me take the second part of your question first.  I think you’ve heard both from me and from the secretary general how critical this ongoing funding is, both from the United States as well as from our partners and allies around the world.  And in fact, the EU – European Union – is also looking at additional support that it wants to provide to Ukraine, and that decision is also critical.  I think these are mutually reinforcing.  As Jens said, the fact that our own allies and partners have actually provided more than the United States, as much as we’ve already done, should reinforce the message to Congress as it’s considering the supplemental budget request that we really do have what is so critical, and that is burden sharing – that this is a load that is being borne more than equitably among allies and partners.  And by the way, not just in Europe; of course, we have key partners in other parts of the world, notably in Asia, who are participating in this. But equally, if the United States doesn’t follow through on our commitments, then it’s going to make it more difficult to have Europeans and others continue to do what they’ve already been doing.  So I think it matters a lot, more than a lot.  I think it’s essential that we do make good on our commitments.  And as we do, I’m convinced that allies and partners around the world will continue to do what they’ve been doing.  And I also remain confident that in Congress we continue to have strong and bipartisan support for Ukraine. So let’s see in the days and weeks ahead as this goes forward.  There is no other magic pot of money, and we are now currently out of the military assistance that we’ve been providing to Ukraine, and we’re even seeing some evidence of what that means on the battlefield.  So it is absolutely vital, absolutely urgent that we do it, and it is important in the terms that you’ve laid down, which is:  What does this mean for our word and our leadership around the world?  But I’m confident that as we do it you will see the benefits of that leadership with many other countries, allies and partners like, continuing to do what’s necessary with us to defend Ukraine. With regard to the ICJ ruling, first let me just say broadly that we continue to believe clearly that the allegations of genocide are without merit.  We have consistently made clear to Israel going back to the early days the imperative of taking every possible step to protect civilian life, to get humanitarian assistance to those who need it, and also to address dehumanizing rhetoric that we’ve heard from some individuals. The court in this decision agreed with that, and the court’s ruling is also very consistent with our view that Israel has the right to take action to ensure that the terrorist attacks of October 7th never happen again, in accordance with international law.  So I can just say we took note of the opinion.  We will continue to monitor the proceeding as it moves forward.  SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  China is not an adversary and I welcome the fact that the United States and other Allies engage with China in dialogue on issues of mutual concern like climate change and arms control.  But at the same time, we have to take seriously the consequences for our security – the significant military buildup which China now is undertaking, and also the fact that the war in Ukraine is bringing China and Russia closer with the substantial support that China provides to Russia in different ways and the promise of a limitless partnership in the midst of this brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. Of course, the size of the Chinese economy, the significant military buildup, all of that is a challenge for all NATO Allies, also for the United States.  The United States is by far the biggest Ally, but it is a great advantage even for the United States to have so many friends and Allies as you have in NATO.  No other major power – Russia and China has nothing similar.  The U.S. represents 25 percent of the world’s GDP, but together with NATO Allies we represent 50 percent of the world’s GDP and 50 percent of the world’s military might.  So there is no reason why the U.S. should deal with China alone.  Together we are so much stronger.  It demonstrates that NATO is a good deal for United States.  It’s good for all European Allies but also for the United States.  So therefore, one of the messages from the summit next summer I expect will be that we need to stand together in a more dangerous world.  NATO is more needed than ever because we live in a more unpredictable and dangerous world. MR MILLER:  Thank you. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a Joint Press Availability

01/29/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a Joint Press Availability 01/29/2024 07:24 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  First, let me say what a pleasure it is as always to have Secretary General Stoltenberg here in Washington at the State Department.  Let me first note the drone attack yesterday by Iranian-backed militia on U.S. forces in Jordan.  It killed three of our soldiers, wounded many others. First and foremost, I’m thinking of those who lost their lives, those who are wounded, their family members, and their friends.  Every day we have our men and women in uniform around the world who are putting their lives on the line for our security, for our freedom.  I am as always humbled by their courage and their sacrifice.  From the outset, we have been clear in warning that anyone looking to take advantage of conflict in the Middle East and try to expand it:  Don’t do it.  We’ve taken steps to defend ourselves and to defend our partners as well as to prevent escalation.  And the President has been crystal clear:  We will respond decisively to any aggression, and we will hold responsible the people who attacked our troops.  We will do so at a time and a place of our choosing.  At the same time, we remain focused on our core objectives in the region, both in terms of the conflict in Gaza and broader efforts to build truly durable peace and security.  To that end, I had an opportunity to meet today with the prime minister and foreign minister of Qatar on the ongoing effort to get hostages out and to create an extended pause.  This is critical to them being able to get to the formula that we’ve been talking about for putting a durable end to the cycle of violence that we’ve seen in the region for generation after generation and the opportunity that exists to actually achieve it:  an integrated Israel with relations with all of its neighbors, security commitments, assurances that it needs to make sure that it can move forward in peace and security; a Palestinian Authority that’s reformed, and a clear pathway to a Palestinian state.  That vision and its realization can dramatically change the security circumstance for Israel, for the Palestinians, for all of our partners in the region, and at the same time isolate the small number of actors who don’t want to get there, who have a very different vision for what the future is – notably Iran – a different vision that we see playing out every single day, either directly by Iran or by its proxies.  But the way to durable security is through a region that’s more integrated, where the relations among its countries are normalized, and where the question of the rights of Palestinians is finally answered.  Jens and I had an opportunity today, of course, to talk about the NATO Summit and to talk about other matters relating to our Alliance.  And I have to say that once again we see that NATO is advancing with a sense of urgency and a strong sense not only of unity of purpose but unity of action.  Just at the very end of last week, Türkiye approved Sweden’s accession to NATO.  Sweden brings tremendous capabilities to the Alliance in every domain.  Hungary now will have to act in order to complete the process of Sweden’s accession, but I fully anticipate that that will happen in the weeks ahead when Hungary’s parliament returns.  Now, the accession of both Finland and Sweden was far from inevitable.  In fact, if you go back a little over two years, no one was talking about it.  But in the wake of Moscow’s renewed aggression against Ukraine, both countries felt that it was clearly in their interest to defend their people and defend their sovereignty by joining the Alliance.  I think the process that we’ve seen in actually record time – first with Finland and now with Sweden – demonstrates that NATO’s door is open, remains open, including to Ukraine – which will become a member of NATO.  This also underscores one of the many ways in which Putin’s aggression against Ukraine has been an abject strategic failure for Russia, how it has in fact precipitated the very things that Putin sought to prevent.  He wanted to shrink NATO; it is now larger and getting larger still.  He wanted to weaken NATO; it is stronger than it’s ever been.  All of this will, I think, come to an important inflection point when we get to the NATO Summit – the historic NATO Summit that we are very honored to host in Washington in July.  This is going to be, I think, the most ambitious summit since the end of the Cold War, showing NATO’s adaptation to new challenges and new threats, whether it’s Russia, whether it’s in very different ways the PRC, in the cyber domain, terrorism.  And what you’re seeing is an Alliance that, as I said, is coming together in new ways and in stronger ways to make sure that it can deal effectively with those challenges.  And even as we’re celebrating when we get to the NATO Summit 75 years of its history, the real focus of the summit is going to be on the next 75 years and everything NATO has done to adapt and make itself, as it has been, indispensable to the defense and security of its members. Some of those capabilities and some of that strength was on display as we kicked off the largest NATO military exercises since the end of the Cold War, Steadfast Defender, 90,000 personnel who are sending a very clear message:  This Alliance is ready and it is able to defend every square inch of NATO territory. We discussed with the secretary general NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine.  Last week, NATO signed a $1.2 billion contract to produce 220,000 artillery shells.  That’s going to help Allies restock their own arsenals, and it complements efforts by the United States, by the European Union, by Ukraine, to ramp up defense production.  This will make NATO itself and all Allies much more resilient for future threats as we move forward. As all of us take on these challenges – and I want to emphasize in the case of Ukraine we’ve seen this very, very clearly – there’s probably never been a better example of burden sharing in the history of the Alliance and the partnerships that we have with different countries than we see when it comes to Ukraine.  As I’ve mentioned before, the support that the United States has provided to Ukraine has been exceptional, about $75 billion over the last couple of years.  But our partners and allies, notably our core NATO Allies, have provided more than $110 billion over that same period of time.  And whether it’s military support, whether it’s economic support, whether it’s humanitarian support, the burden sharing that we’ve seen in the case of Ukraine has been more than exemplary. But in order to make sure that that continues, that all of us step up and do what’s necessary to continue to ensure that Ukraine knows success and Russia knows strategic failure, it is vital that Congress pass the supplemental budget request that the President has put before it.  Without it, simply put, everything that Ukrainians achieved and that we’ve helped them achieve will be in jeopardy.  And absent that supplemental, we’re going to be sending a strong and wrong message to all of our adversaries that we are not serious about the defense of freedom, the defense of democracy.  And it will simply reinforce for Vladimir Putin that he can somehow outlast Ukraine and outlast us.  Well, that’s not going to be the case.  We have to make sure that it’s not the case. Finally, let me just say that we have a lot of work to do over the next few months to prepare for the summit.  I think we had today very good sessions with the secretary general, and we’ll be meeting shortly with the National Security Advisor and the Secretary of Defense over at the Pentagon to continue that work.  I look forward to that and look forward to the weeks and months ahead as we prepare for NATO Summit. Jens, over to you. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Thanks so much, Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, and thank you for hosting me here in Washington.  It is always good to meet with you and even more important given the dangers that we face.  So let me begin by offering my deepest condolences for the U.S. troops killed and wounded in yesterday’s drone attack in Jordan.  We see Iran continue to destabilize the region.  Iran also bears the responsibility for backing terrorists who attack ships in the Red Sea.  Tehran’s behavior reminds us of what a world without rules look like – unpredictable and dangerous, a world where our security becomes more expensive. I welcome your tireless diplomacy, Secretary Blinken, to prevent further escalation of the war in Gaza, your efforts to alleviate human suffering, and your hard work towards a peaceful resolution.  Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine is nearing the two-year mark, and a Russian victory would embolden Iran, North Korea, and China.  That matters for Europe’s security and it matters for America’s security, so supporting Ukraine serves U.S. interests.  For a tiny fraction of annual defense spending, the United States has helped Ukraine destroy a major part of Russia’s combat capacity without placing a single American soldier in harm’s way. I welcome the clear commitment from President Biden and you to sustain U.S. support to Ukraine and to work with Congress to achieve that.  As you said, other Allies are also stepping up.  In fact, what European NATO Allies and Canada provide in terms of military, financial, and humanitarian aid actually exceeds what the U.S. is providing.  So this is truly a joint effort by all NATO Allies from both sides of the Atlantic, and I am confident that all NATO Allies will continue to deliver, because supporting Ukraine is not charity.  It is an investment in our own security. President Putin started this war, and he could end it today if he stopped attacking a neighbor.  The war could also end if Ukraine stopped defending itself, but that would not mean peace.  It would mean Russian occupation, and occupation is not peace.  A just peace will require President Putin to realize that he will not get what he wants on the battlefield.  Moscow must accept a negotiated solution where Ukraine prevails as a sovereign independent nation.  What happens around the negotiating table is inextricably linked to the situation on the battlefield.  So if we want a lasting, just peace, we must provide Ukraine with more weapons and ammunition.  Weapons to Ukraine is the path to peace. Finally, we also discussed adapting our Alliance for the future.  In July, we will mark NATO’s 75th anniversary with a summit here in Washington.  And as you said, NATO is getting stronger and bigger.  Finland is already a member; Sweden will become a member soon.  And this demonstrates that Putin is getting exactly the opposite of what he wanted.  He wanted less NATO, a weak NATO; he’s getting a stronger and more united NATO, and a NATO with more members. At the summit we will take further steps to bolster NATO’s strength, invest more in our defense, and work with partners around the world.  Through NATO, the U.S. has more friends and allies than any other power.  Together we make up 50 percent of the world’s economic and military might.  China and Russia have nothing like NATO.  It is why they always try to undermine our unity.  In times of growing competition and rivalry, NATO makes the U.S. stronger and safer, and all of us more secure.  So Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, thank you again for your personal commitment to our transatlantic bond and to our shared security.  Thank you.  MR MILLER:  For the first question, Olivia Gazis with CBS. QUESTION:  Thank you, Matt, and thank you, Mr. Secretary.  To date, the United States has not publicly accused Iran of being directly involved in any attacks on U.S. forces, while noting the regime in Tehran supports and does not discourage its proxies from conducting these attacks.  This weekend’s lethal strike, Mr. Secretary, was one of at least 160 attacks on U.S. forces in the region by Iranian proxies since October.  Could earlier, stronger action by the United States against Iran and not just its militias have spared American lives? And secondly, if I may, Mr. Secretary, the UN secretary-general has appealed to the U.S. and 10 other countries who have suspended funding to UNRWA following revelations regarding allegations that at least a dozen of its 13,000 employees may have had involvement in the October 7th attacks, and more than a hundred more may have links to militant groups.  Under what circumstances and how soon could the U.S. consider resuming its support, considering this decision comes as Gaza is tipping into famine, and given your own personal and persistent appeals that humanitarian aid to Gazan civilians increase and not decrease?  Mr. Secretary General, welcome to Washington – welcome back.  The United States Congress, as you well know, remains at a political impasse regarding continued aid to Ukraine, and the European Union is likewise struggling politically to restart the flow of resources into Kyiv.  You yourself have said that Ukraine’s spring offensive didn’t lead to the results that many had hoped for.  So how long does Ukraine’s military have before the marginal successes that it did notch when it enjoyed steadier resources from the West risk being reversed by Russia, which seems to be enjoying growing support from the likes of North Korea and Iran? And briefly, Mr. Secretary General, I understand you’ll be meeting with American lawmakers during this trip to Washington, much as President Zelenskyy did when he was here late last year.  Is there a message you believe you can deliver to those lawmakers to make a timely difference in their decision-making?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Olivia, thank you very much, and thank you for also representing all your colleagues in making sure that you asked all their questions as well.  Appreciate it.  (Laughter.)  Look, first I think it’s very important to note that this is an incredibly volatile time in the Middle East.  I would argue that we’ve not seen a situation as dangerous as the one we’re facing now across the region since at least 1973, and arguably even before that.  And that is the environment in which we’re operating, and of course that was triggered by the horrific attacks of October 7th by Hamas against innocent men, women, and children.  We’ve made very, very clear from day one that we’re going to defend our people, we’re going to defend our personnel, we’re going to defend our interests, and that’s exactly what we’ve done.  We’ve taken action, and significant action, to deter groups, to degrade their capabilities in Iraq, in Syria, in Yemen.  At the same time, the President’s been very clear that we want to prevent broader escalation.  We want to prevent this conflict from spreading.  So we are intent on doing both – that is, standing up for our people when they’re attacked, while at the same time working every single day to prevent the conflict from growing and spreading.  And that’s exactly what we’ll continue to do.  It’s fundamentally what’s in the interests of the United States, what’s in the interests of the region, and I think what’s in the interests of the world. But I – the President said this, I think virtually from day one, to anyone who would try to use the crisis in the Middle East, the conflict in the Middle East, to sow further instability and use it as an excuse to attack our personnel:  We will respond, we will respond strongly, we will respond at a time and place of our choosing.  And obviously, I’m not going to telegraph what we might do in this instance or get ahead of the President, but I can, again, tell you that as President said yesterday, we will respond.  And that response could be multi-leveled, come in stages, and be sustained over time. With regard to UNRWA, the reports that we got last week – and UNRWA brought them to us – were deeply, deeply troubling.  It is imperative that UNRWA immediately, as it said it would, investigate; that it hold people accountable as necessary; and that it review its procedures.  I had a very good conversation with the Secretary-General of the United Nations Guterres last week when we were first made aware of these allegations, and we are going to be looking very hard at the steps that UNRWA takes, again, to make sure that this is fully and thoroughly investigated, that there’s clear accountability, and that as necessary, measures are put in place so that this doesn’t happen again, assuming the allegations are fully borne out.  Certainly we’ve not had the – we haven’t had the ability to investigate them ourselves, but they are highly, highly credible. At the same time, and as you indicated, UNRWA has played and continues to play an absolutely indispensable role in trying to make sure that men, women, and children who so desperately need assistance in Gaza actually get it.  And no one else can play the role that UNRWA’s been playing, certainly not in the near term.  No one has the reach, the capacity, the structure to do what UNRWA’s been doing.  And from our perspective, it’s important – more than important; imperative – that that role continue. So that only underscores the importance of UNRWA tackling this as quickly, as effectively, and as thoroughly as possible, and that’s what we’re looking for. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  I will meet the members of Congress tomorrow.  And of course, I’m looking forward to discussing many issues with them, including Ukraine.  I’m confident that all NATO Allies, also the United States, will continue to provide support to Ukraine because this is in our own security interests to do so.  It would be a tragedy for the Ukrainians if President Putin wins, but it will also make the world more dangerous and us, all of us, more insecure.  It will embolden other authoritarian leaders – not only Putin, President Putin, but also North Korea, Iran, and China – to use force.  Today it’s Ukraine; tomorrow it could be Taiwan. So therefore it is in our interests to ensure that Ukraine prevails as a sovereign, independent nation.  And the support we are providing is making a difference.  There’s a steady flow of ammunition and weapons from NATO Allies, and we have seen that this support has enabled the Ukrainians actually – to actually make big achievements. We have to remember where we started.  When this war started, or when the full-fledged invasion happened in February last year, or in 2022, most experts feared that Russia would control Kyiv within days and all of Ukraine within weeks.  The reality is that the Ukrainians were able to push back the Russian forces, and they have liberated 50 percent of the territory that Russia occupied at the beginning of the war.  They have been able to inflict heavy losses on the Russian armed forces – more than 300 casualties, thousands of armored vehicles have been destroyed, and the – and hundreds of planes.  And this is something we all have achieved without putting any NATO soldiers, U.S. soldiers or any other NATO soldiers, in harm’s way, but just by providing military support to Ukraine.  And Ukrainians have been able to open the western part of the Black Sea, to push the Russian Black Sea fleet to the east, so they’re now able to export grain and other commodities through the Black Sea. These are substantial achievements, and they continue to conduct deep strikes on Russian positions.  So this idea that it doesn’t help to help them – actually, Ukrainians have proved the opposite. Then of course, we all would like to have seen more progress in the offensive, but we should not underestimate the achievements the Ukrainians have already made.  And if we want an end to this war, the only way to end this war is to convince Putin that he will not win on the battlefield, and the only way to achieve that is to provide weapons to Ukraine from the United States, from other allies and partners.  So support to Ukraine is a good deal for NATO, for United States, for all of us. Then you asked me one more question, I think. QUESTION:  How long does Ukraine have before the (inaudible)? SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Well, the wars are by nature unpredictable, but the only thing we know is that – is that we need to continue to support them, and I’m confident that we will do so, and also when we meet here in Washington I am confident that Allies will again commit to sustain their support for Ukraine. MR MILLER:  Caitriona Perry with BBC. QUESTION:  Thank you.  Caitriona Perry with BBC News.  Mr. Secretary, if I could just follow up on my colleague’s comments there, you referred to a multistage response to yesterday’s attack.  Do you hold Iran directly responsible?  Do you consider the U.S. to be at war or on the verge of war at this point?  And what impact would any response have on the hostage ceasefire deal, which we’re told is at an advanced stage at this point?  And Mr. Secretary General, if I could ask you what NATO’s view is of the risk of the U.S. becoming involved in a direct conflict with Iran, what that means for NATO’s other priorities, including Ukraine.  And on the risk to further U.S. funding of Ukraine, can NATO and other allies, including the EU, keep Ukraine going without the U.S. if they need to do that?  And just on the point of EU and European countries, on the issue of Sweden and Hungary holding out on its ratification of membership, do you think – is that forthcoming soon, and what does that mean for future expansion of NATO?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  So the attacks that have taken place since October on our – on our forces, on our personnel in both Iraq and Syria have been conducted by groups that are aligned with Iran and indeed are supported by Iran, funded by Iran, equipped by Iran.  And I would note that the presence of our forces in both Iraq and Syria has nothing to do with Gaza, nothing to do with the conflict that’s taken place since October 7th, since the horrific attacks by Hamas, and everything to do with making sure that ISIS doesn’t re-emerge.  That’s why they’re there – something that Iran should share as an interest.  But on the contrary, the groups that are aligned with it have been conducting these attacks.  And as I mentioned, we do not seek conflict with Iran, we do not seek war with Iran, but we have and we will continue to defend our personnel and to take every action necessary to do that, including responding very vigorously to the attack that just took place.  And as I mentioned, I’m not going to get ahead of where the President is; I’m certainly not going to telegraph the response.  But as I mentioned, that response could well be multileveled, it could come in stages, and it could be sustained over time. At the same time, totally separately, we have been working to try to get hostages back out of Gaza and at the same time to get an extended pause in, and that effort is something that we are very, very actively pursuing right now with, of course, our partners in Qatar and Egypt as well as Israel.  Those who are trying to expand the conflict, broaden the conflict, escalate the conflict, they may say that they’re doing that somehow in response to Gaza, but every action they’re taking really is to perpetuate the conflict and to expand it.  They don’t have the interests of anyone in mind except their own interests, as they see them, and we’re determined, again, that we do everything possible not to see the conflict expand.  On the contrary, we’re working to end it, and end it in a way that the atrocities of October 7th never happen again as well as the suffering that we’ve seen on the part of Israelis and Palestinians alike doesn’t happen again.  That’s what we’re working toward and that’s where our focus is. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  First, on the issue of Swedish membership, I welcome, of course, that Türkiye now has finalized the ratification process with the decision in the parliament and also the signature from President Erdogan.  This demonstrates that Türkiye has followed up and delivered on what we all promised at the NATO Summit in Vilnius last summer, and it demonstrates that NATO’s door is open. I spoke last week with Prime Minister Orban of Hungary, because now Hungary is the only country that has not yet finalized the ratification process.  Prime Minister Orban was very clear that he supports Swedish membership of NATO.  He told me that the parliament in Hungary will reconvene at the end of February, and I expect also in line with what he has said that the parliament will then finalize the ratification shortly after that.  So I’m confident that Sweden will be a full member of the Alliance; that will make NATO stronger, it will send a clear message to Moscow, and it will demonstrate that it’s for NATO Allies to decide who’s going to be a member.  Moscow has no veto over NATO enlargement. Then on Iran, of course, Iran is responsible for destabilizing the whole region, threatening stability and security in the Middle East.  It is repressive at home and aggressive abroad.  We have seen this through many different attacks and also the different proxy groups, terrorist groups that Iran supports.  This underlines, of course, also the risk of escalation, and therefore I welcome the efforts by the United States to address these risks, and it is important that we also realize that Russia and Iran are now aligning more and more.  Russia is more and more dependent on drones from Iran – they actually built a new factory in Russia based on Iranian drone technology – and in return Russia is providing advanced technology to Iran.  So it demonstrates how authoritarian regimes are now coming closer and closer, and the only answer to that is that NATO Allies, all those countries that believe in democracy, have to stand together as we do in NATO. MR MILLER:  Alex Marquardt with CNN. QUESTION:  Thank you.  Mr. Secretary, if I could start with you, specifically about the hostage and ceasefire talks.  Can you share specifically what progress was made yesterday in Paris?  The Qatari prime minister after his meeting with you, he made it sound like a broad framework had been agreed to and it was being taken to Hamas for them to take a look at.  Do you believe that it is the language surrounding the end of hostilities that is the biggest sticking point?  And if you would also comment on how – to what extent Prime Minister Netanyahu’s comments about no Palestinian sovereignty, his leaked recording about criticizing Qatar, his ministers talking about resettling Gaza – to what extent has that complicated these conversations over an eventual deal? And Mr. Secretary General, following on some of my colleagues’ questions, how much do you think Ukraine’s war efforts are suffering because of the dwindling amount of U.S. aid and the uncertainty about whether more will be coming?  How can you convince the U.S. and others to continue sending advanced systems and large amounts of aid when they say that supply issues are growing?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  So first, of course, look, the less said the better in terms of where we are in pursuing a resumption of getting hostages out and back home with their families.  What I can tell you is this:  I think the work that’s been done, including just this weekend, is important and is hopeful in terms of seeing that process resume.  Recall that in the first go-around, we were able with our partners in Qatar and Egypt to get an agreement that resulted in the release of more than a hundred hostages, and I believe that the proposal that is on the table and that is shared among all of the critical actors – of course Israel, but also with Qatar and Egypt playing a critical role in mediating and working between Israel and Hamas – I believe the proposal is a strong one and a compelling one that, again, offers some hope that we can get back to this process.  But Hamas will have to make its own decisions.  I can just tell you that there is, again, strong, I would say, alignment among the countries involved that this is a good and strong proposal, and the work that was done over the weekend, including by CIA Director Bill Burns, was important in helping to advance this. As to comments that people make or that come out into the media, look, all I can tell you is this:  It’s my strong assessment that certainly Israel would very much like to see this process of hostages coming out resume.  It may be – well, I don’t want to speak for the Israelis, but I can certainly say from the perspective of the United States, because we of course have American citizens who are involved, this is at the very top of our list and has been from day one, and I believe that Israeli leadership and certainly Israeli society feels very, very strongly about it.  So we’ll see.  I can’t say anything more than that.  But I can say that very important, productive work has been done, and there is some real hope going forward. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  The United States has demonstrated leadership in mobilizing NATO Allies to support Ukraine, and I count on the United States, and I am confident that the United States will continue to do so because it is in the interest of the United States to ensure that President Putin does not win in Ukraine, and that we have to remember that this is something we have to do together, and – all NATO Allies and partners.  As Secretary Blinken just referred to, European Allies have actually provided more support in total for Ukraine than the United States.  I commend the United States, but we must not forget that this is a joint effort of all Allies, and if we put together what European Allies and Canada are providing, it actually exceeds the U.S. support.  So this is burden sharing, a joint effort by all Allies together.  And we do so in solidarity with Ukraine, but our support is not charity; it is an investment in our own security because we know that this is closely watched also in Beijing.  And we also see how China and Russia are aligning more and more, how China is propping up the Russian economy, including the defense production.  We see how China is repeating and spreading the same narrative about the war as Russia, how China has failed to condemn the illegal invasion of Ukraine.  And then we have to remember that just days before the full-scale invasion, China and Russia – President Xi and President Putin – signed a joint partnership agreement where they promised each other limitless partnership.  So I understand that many Allies are also concerned about China, but that’s not an argument for being less concerned about Ukraine.  Security is not regional; security is global.  What happens in Europe matters for Asia; what happens in Asia matters for Europe.  And today it’s Ukraine; tomorrow it can be Taiwan.  So therefore, it is in our interest to ensure that we provide the weapons and support they need.  And I’m confident that Allies will do so to – and to make sure that we can do that, we need the money, but we also need to ramp up production.  And I welcome what has been done in the United States.  Tomorrow I will go – on Wednesday, I will go to Alabama to – so a factory there where they are producing Javelins – Lockheed Martin – to recognize the importance of ramping up production.  We have to understand that the fact that European Allies are now investing more in defense is a good deal for the United States, demonstrating that NATO’s a good deal for the United States.  Just over the last two years, European NATO Allies have agreed contracts for the U.S. defense industry worth 120 billion U.S. dollars.  We need to do more, and therefore I welcome also that NATO has now, over the last months, actually agreed contracts worth $10 billion to ramp up production of ammunition, of interceptors for the Patriot batteries, and so on.  That enables to replenish our own stocks, but also to continue to provide support to Ukraine.  So we will – we are able, we have the will, and I’m confident that we’ll have the necessary decisions both in the United States and Europe to continue the support.  MR MILLER:  And for the final question, Anders Tvegard with Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation. QUESTION:  Thanks very much.  Mr. Secretary, your – the Biden administration’s policy on supporting Israel is unmistakable.  How would you look at the interim ruling by the World Court on Gaza?  And if I may, you talked about Congress and the funds.  What message does this send about U.S. leadership when your administration cannot – cannot or won’t hold words or promises?  I mean, you cannot fulfill them by action.  And Mr. Secretary General, Mr. Stoltenberg, you have now repeatedly warned about saying that China is watching the discussions over here about arming Ukraine.  How does this play out?  How will China use this?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Let me take the second part of your question first.  I think you’ve heard both from me and from the secretary general how critical this ongoing funding is, both from the United States as well as from our partners and allies around the world.  And in fact, the EU – European Union – is also looking at additional support that it wants to provide to Ukraine, and that decision is also critical.  I think these are mutually reinforcing.  As Jens said, the fact that our own allies and partners have actually provided more than the United States, as much as we’ve already done, should reinforce the message to Congress as it’s considering the supplemental budget request that we really do have what is so critical, and that is burden sharing – that this is a load that is being borne more than equitably among allies and partners.  And by the way, not just in Europe; of course, we have key partners in other parts of the world, notably in Asia, who are participating in this. But equally, if the United States doesn’t follow through on our commitments, then it’s going to make it more difficult to have Europeans and others continue to do what they’ve already been doing.  So I think it matters a lot, more than a lot.  I think it’s essential that we do make good on our commitments.  And as we do, I’m convinced that allies and partners around the world will continue to do what they’ve been doing.  And I also remain confident that in Congress we continue to have strong and bipartisan support for Ukraine. So let’s see in the days and weeks ahead as this goes forward.  There is no other magic pot of money, and we are now currently out of the military assistance that we’ve been providing to Ukraine, and we’re even seeing some evidence of what that means on the battlefield.  So it is absolutely vital, absolutely urgent that we do it, and it is important in the terms that you’ve laid down, which is:  What does this mean for our word and our leadership around the world?  But I’m confident that as we do it you will see the benefits of that leadership with many other countries, allies and partners like, continuing to do what’s necessary with us to defend Ukraine. With regard to the ICJ ruling, first let me just say broadly that we continue to believe clearly that the allegations of genocide are without merit.  We have consistently made clear to Israel going back to the early days the imperative of taking every possible step to protect civilian life, to get humanitarian assistance to those who need it, and also to address dehumanizing rhetoric that we’ve heard from some individuals. The court in this decision agreed with that, and the court’s ruling is also very consistent with our view that Israel has the right to take action to ensure that the terrorist attacks of October 7th never happen again, in accordance with international law.  So I can just say we took note of the opinion.  We will continue to monitor the proceeding as it moves forward.  SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  China is not an adversary and I welcome the fact that the United States and other Allies engage with China in dialogue on issues of mutual concern like climate change and arms control.  But at the same time, we have to take seriously the consequences for our security – the significant military buildup which China now is undertaking, and also the fact that the war in Ukraine is bringing China and Russia closer with the substantial support that China provides to Russia in different ways and the promise of a limitless partnership in the midst of this brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. Of course, the size of the Chinese economy, the significant military buildup, all of that is a challenge for all NATO Allies, also for the United States.  The United States is by far the biggest Ally, but it is a great advantage even for the United States to have so many friends and Allies as you have in NATO.  No other major power – Russia and China has nothing similar.  The U.S. represents 25 percent of the world’s GDP, but together with NATO Allies we represent 50 percent of the world’s GDP and 50 percent of the world’s military might.  So there is no reason why the U.S. should deal with China alone.  Together we are so much stronger.  It demonstrates that NATO is a good deal for United States.  It’s good for all European Allies but also for the United States.  So therefore, one of the messages from the summit next summer I expect will be that we need to stand together in a more dangerous world.  NATO is more needed than ever because we live in a more unpredictable and dangerous world. MR MILLER:  Thank you. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a Joint Press Availability

01/29/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a Joint Press Availability 01/29/2024 07:24 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  First, let me say what a pleasure it is as always to have Secretary General Stoltenberg here in Washington at the State Department.  Let me first note the drone attack yesterday by Iranian-backed militia on U.S. forces in Jordan.  It killed three of our soldiers, wounded many others. First and foremost, I’m thinking of those who lost their lives, those who are wounded, their family members, and their friends.  Every day we have our men and women in uniform around the world who are putting their lives on the line for our security, for our freedom.  I am as always humbled by their courage and their sacrifice.  From the outset, we have been clear in warning that anyone looking to take advantage of conflict in the Middle East and try to expand it:  Don’t do it.  We’ve taken steps to defend ourselves and to defend our partners as well as to prevent escalation.  And the President has been crystal clear:  We will respond decisively to any aggression, and we will hold responsible the people who attacked our troops.  We will do so at a time and a place of our choosing.  At the same time, we remain focused on our core objectives in the region, both in terms of the conflict in Gaza and broader efforts to build truly durable peace and security.  To that end, I had an opportunity to meet today with the prime minister and foreign minister of Qatar on the ongoing effort to get hostages out and to create an extended pause.  This is critical to them being able to get to the formula that we’ve been talking about for putting a durable end to the cycle of violence that we’ve seen in the region for generation after generation and the opportunity that exists to actually achieve it:  an integrated Israel with relations with all of its neighbors, security commitments, assurances that it needs to make sure that it can move forward in peace and security; a Palestinian Authority that’s reformed, and a clear pathway to a Palestinian state.  That vision and its realization can dramatically change the security circumstance for Israel, for the Palestinians, for all of our partners in the region, and at the same time isolate the small number of actors who don’t want to get there, who have a very different vision for what the future is – notably Iran – a different vision that we see playing out every single day, either directly by Iran or by its proxies.  But the way to durable security is through a region that’s more integrated, where the relations among its countries are normalized, and where the question of the rights of Palestinians is finally answered.  Jens and I had an opportunity today, of course, to talk about the NATO Summit and to talk about other matters relating to our Alliance.  And I have to say that once again we see that NATO is advancing with a sense of urgency and a strong sense not only of unity of purpose but unity of action.  Just at the very end of last week, Türkiye approved Sweden’s accession to NATO.  Sweden brings tremendous capabilities to the Alliance in every domain.  Hungary now will have to act in order to complete the process of Sweden’s accession, but I fully anticipate that that will happen in the weeks ahead when Hungary’s parliament returns.  Now, the accession of both Finland and Sweden was far from inevitable.  In fact, if you go back a little over two years, no one was talking about it.  But in the wake of Moscow’s renewed aggression against Ukraine, both countries felt that it was clearly in their interest to defend their people and defend their sovereignty by joining the Alliance.  I think the process that we’ve seen in actually record time – first with Finland and now with Sweden – demonstrates that NATO’s door is open, remains open, including to Ukraine – which will become a member of NATO.  This also underscores one of the many ways in which Putin’s aggression against Ukraine has been an abject strategic failure for Russia, how it has in fact precipitated the very things that Putin sought to prevent.  He wanted to shrink NATO; it is now larger and getting larger still.  He wanted to weaken NATO; it is stronger than it’s ever been.  All of this will, I think, come to an important inflection point when we get to the NATO Summit – the historic NATO Summit that we are very honored to host in Washington in July.  This is going to be, I think, the most ambitious summit since the end of the Cold War, showing NATO’s adaptation to new challenges and new threats, whether it’s Russia, whether it’s in very different ways the PRC, in the cyber domain, terrorism.  And what you’re seeing is an Alliance that, as I said, is coming together in new ways and in stronger ways to make sure that it can deal effectively with those challenges.  And even as we’re celebrating when we get to the NATO Summit 75 years of its history, the real focus of the summit is going to be on the next 75 years and everything NATO has done to adapt and make itself, as it has been, indispensable to the defense and security of its members. Some of those capabilities and some of that strength was on display as we kicked off the largest NATO military exercises since the end of the Cold War, Steadfast Defender, 90,000 personnel who are sending a very clear message:  This Alliance is ready and it is able to defend every square inch of NATO territory. We discussed with the secretary general NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine.  Last week, NATO signed a $1.2 billion contract to produce 220,000 artillery shells.  That’s going to help Allies restock their own arsenals, and it complements efforts by the United States, by the European Union, by Ukraine, to ramp up defense production.  This will make NATO itself and all Allies much more resilient for future threats as we move forward. As all of us take on these challenges – and I want to emphasize in the case of Ukraine we’ve seen this very, very clearly – there’s probably never been a better example of burden sharing in the history of the Alliance and the partnerships that we have with different countries than we see when it comes to Ukraine.  As I’ve mentioned before, the support that the United States has provided to Ukraine has been exceptional, about $75 billion over the last couple of years.  But our partners and allies, notably our core NATO Allies, have provided more than $110 billion over that same period of time.  And whether it’s military support, whether it’s economic support, whether it’s humanitarian support, the burden sharing that we’ve seen in the case of Ukraine has been more than exemplary. But in order to make sure that that continues, that all of us step up and do what’s necessary to continue to ensure that Ukraine knows success and Russia knows strategic failure, it is vital that Congress pass the supplemental budget request that the President has put before it.  Without it, simply put, everything that Ukrainians achieved and that we’ve helped them achieve will be in jeopardy.  And absent that supplemental, we’re going to be sending a strong and wrong message to all of our adversaries that we are not serious about the defense of freedom, the defense of democracy.  And it will simply reinforce for Vladimir Putin that he can somehow outlast Ukraine and outlast us.  Well, that’s not going to be the case.  We have to make sure that it’s not the case. Finally, let me just say that we have a lot of work to do over the next few months to prepare for the summit.  I think we had today very good sessions with the secretary general, and we’ll be meeting shortly with the National Security Advisor and the Secretary of Defense over at the Pentagon to continue that work.  I look forward to that and look forward to the weeks and months ahead as we prepare for NATO Summit. Jens, over to you. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Thanks so much, Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, and thank you for hosting me here in Washington.  It is always good to meet with you and even more important given the dangers that we face.  So let me begin by offering my deepest condolences for the U.S. troops killed and wounded in yesterday’s drone attack in Jordan.  We see Iran continue to destabilize the region.  Iran also bears the responsibility for backing terrorists who attack ships in the Red Sea.  Tehran’s behavior reminds us of what a world without rules look like – unpredictable and dangerous, a world where our security becomes more expensive. I welcome your tireless diplomacy, Secretary Blinken, to prevent further escalation of the war in Gaza, your efforts to alleviate human suffering, and your hard work towards a peaceful resolution.  Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine is nearing the two-year mark, and a Russian victory would embolden Iran, North Korea, and China.  That matters for Europe’s security and it matters for America’s security, so supporting Ukraine serves U.S. interests.  For a tiny fraction of annual defense spending, the United States has helped Ukraine destroy a major part of Russia’s combat capacity without placing a single American soldier in harm’s way. I welcome the clear commitment from President Biden and you to sustain U.S. support to Ukraine and to work with Congress to achieve that.  As you said, other Allies are also stepping up.  In fact, what European NATO Allies and Canada provide in terms of military, financial, and humanitarian aid actually exceeds what the U.S. is providing.  So this is truly a joint effort by all NATO Allies from both sides of the Atlantic, and I am confident that all NATO Allies will continue to deliver, because supporting Ukraine is not charity.  It is an investment in our own security. President Putin started this war, and he could end it today if he stopped attacking a neighbor.  The war could also end if Ukraine stopped defending itself, but that would not mean peace.  It would mean Russian occupation, and occupation is not peace.  A just peace will require President Putin to realize that he will not get what he wants on the battlefield.  Moscow must accept a negotiated solution where Ukraine prevails as a sovereign independent nation.  What happens around the negotiating table is inextricably linked to the situation on the battlefield.  So if we want a lasting, just peace, we must provide Ukraine with more weapons and ammunition.  Weapons to Ukraine is the path to peace. Finally, we also discussed adapting our Alliance for the future.  In July, we will mark NATO’s 75th anniversary with a summit here in Washington.  And as you said, NATO is getting stronger and bigger.  Finland is already a member; Sweden will become a member soon.  And this demonstrates that Putin is getting exactly the opposite of what he wanted.  He wanted less NATO, a weak NATO; he’s getting a stronger and more united NATO, and a NATO with more members. At the summit we will take further steps to bolster NATO’s strength, invest more in our defense, and work with partners around the world.  Through NATO, the U.S. has more friends and allies than any other power.  Together we make up 50 percent of the world’s economic and military might.  China and Russia have nothing like NATO.  It is why they always try to undermine our unity.  In times of growing competition and rivalry, NATO makes the U.S. stronger and safer, and all of us more secure.  So Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, thank you again for your personal commitment to our transatlantic bond and to our shared security.  Thank you.  MR MILLER:  For the first question, Olivia Gazis with CBS. QUESTION:  Thank you, Matt, and thank you, Mr. Secretary.  To date, the United States has not publicly accused Iran of being directly involved in any attacks on U.S. forces, while noting the regime in Tehran supports and does not discourage its proxies from conducting these attacks.  This weekend’s lethal strike, Mr. Secretary, was one of at least 160 attacks on U.S. forces in the region by Iranian proxies since October.  Could earlier, stronger action by the United States against Iran and not just its militias have spared American lives? And secondly, if I may, Mr. Secretary, the UN secretary-general has appealed to the U.S. and 10 other countries who have suspended funding to UNRWA following revelations regarding allegations that at least a dozen of its 13,000 employees may have had involvement in the October 7th attacks, and more than a hundred more may have links to militant groups.  Under what circumstances and how soon could the U.S. consider resuming its support, considering this decision comes as Gaza is tipping into famine, and given your own personal and persistent appeals that humanitarian aid to Gazan civilians increase and not decrease?  Mr. Secretary General, welcome to Washington – welcome back.  The United States Congress, as you well know, remains at a political impasse regarding continued aid to Ukraine, and the European Union is likewise struggling politically to restart the flow of resources into Kyiv.  You yourself have said that Ukraine’s spring offensive didn’t lead to the results that many had hoped for.  So how long does Ukraine’s military have before the marginal successes that it did notch when it enjoyed steadier resources from the West risk being reversed by Russia, which seems to be enjoying growing support from the likes of North Korea and Iran? And briefly, Mr. Secretary General, I understand you’ll be meeting with American lawmakers during this trip to Washington, much as President Zelenskyy did when he was here late last year.  Is there a message you believe you can deliver to those lawmakers to make a timely difference in their decision-making?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Olivia, thank you very much, and thank you for also representing all your colleagues in making sure that you asked all their questions as well.  Appreciate it.  (Laughter.)  Look, first I think it’s very important to note that this is an incredibly volatile time in the Middle East.  I would argue that we’ve not seen a situation as dangerous as the one we’re facing now across the region since at least 1973, and arguably even before that.  And that is the environment in which we’re operating, and of course that was triggered by the horrific attacks of October 7th by Hamas against innocent men, women, and children.  We’ve made very, very clear from day one that we’re going to defend our people, we’re going to defend our personnel, we’re going to defend our interests, and that’s exactly what we’ve done.  We’ve taken action, and significant action, to deter groups, to degrade their capabilities in Iraq, in Syria, in Yemen.  At the same time, the President’s been very clear that we want to prevent broader escalation.  We want to prevent this conflict from spreading.  So we are intent on doing both – that is, standing up for our people when they’re attacked, while at the same time working every single day to prevent the conflict from growing and spreading.  And that’s exactly what we’ll continue to do.  It’s fundamentally what’s in the interests of the United States, what’s in the interests of the region, and I think what’s in the interests of the world. But I – the President said this, I think virtually from day one, to anyone who would try to use the crisis in the Middle East, the conflict in the Middle East, to sow further instability and use it as an excuse to attack our personnel:  We will respond, we will respond strongly, we will respond at a time and place of our choosing.  And obviously, I’m not going to telegraph what we might do in this instance or get ahead of the President, but I can, again, tell you that as President said yesterday, we will respond.  And that response could be multi-leveled, come in stages, and be sustained over time. With regard to UNRWA, the reports that we got last week – and UNRWA brought them to us – were deeply, deeply troubling.  It is imperative that UNRWA immediately, as it said it would, investigate; that it hold people accountable as necessary; and that it review its procedures.  I had a very good conversation with the Secretary-General of the United Nations Guterres last week when we were first made aware of these allegations, and we are going to be looking very hard at the steps that UNRWA takes, again, to make sure that this is fully and thoroughly investigated, that there’s clear accountability, and that as necessary, measures are put in place so that this doesn’t happen again, assuming the allegations are fully borne out.  Certainly we’ve not had the – we haven’t had the ability to investigate them ourselves, but they are highly, highly credible. At the same time, and as you indicated, UNRWA has played and continues to play an absolutely indispensable role in trying to make sure that men, women, and children who so desperately need assistance in Gaza actually get it.  And no one else can play the role that UNRWA’s been playing, certainly not in the near term.  No one has the reach, the capacity, the structure to do what UNRWA’s been doing.  And from our perspective, it’s important – more than important; imperative – that that role continue. So that only underscores the importance of UNRWA tackling this as quickly, as effectively, and as thoroughly as possible, and that’s what we’re looking for. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  I will meet the members of Congress tomorrow.  And of course, I’m looking forward to discussing many issues with them, including Ukraine.  I’m confident that all NATO Allies, also the United States, will continue to provide support to Ukraine because this is in our own security interests to do so.  It would be a tragedy for the Ukrainians if President Putin wins, but it will also make the world more dangerous and us, all of us, more insecure.  It will embolden other authoritarian leaders – not only Putin, President Putin, but also North Korea, Iran, and China – to use force.  Today it’s Ukraine; tomorrow it could be Taiwan. So therefore it is in our interests to ensure that Ukraine prevails as a sovereign, independent nation.  And the support we are providing is making a difference.  There’s a steady flow of ammunition and weapons from NATO Allies, and we have seen that this support has enabled the Ukrainians actually – to actually make big achievements. We have to remember where we started.  When this war started, or when the full-fledged invasion happened in February last year, or in 2022, most experts feared that Russia would control Kyiv within days and all of Ukraine within weeks.  The reality is that the Ukrainians were able to push back the Russian forces, and they have liberated 50 percent of the territory that Russia occupied at the beginning of the war.  They have been able to inflict heavy losses on the Russian armed forces – more than 300 casualties, thousands of armored vehicles have been destroyed, and the – and hundreds of planes.  And this is something we all have achieved without putting any NATO soldiers, U.S. soldiers or any other NATO soldiers, in harm’s way, but just by providing military support to Ukraine.  And Ukrainians have been able to open the western part of the Black Sea, to push the Russian Black Sea fleet to the east, so they’re now able to export grain and other commodities through the Black Sea. These are substantial achievements, and they continue to conduct deep strikes on Russian positions.  So this idea that it doesn’t help to help them – actually, Ukrainians have proved the opposite. Then of course, we all would like to have seen more progress in the offensive, but we should not underestimate the achievements the Ukrainians have already made.  And if we want an end to this war, the only way to end this war is to convince Putin that he will not win on the battlefield, and the only way to achieve that is to provide weapons to Ukraine from the United States, from other allies and partners.  So support to Ukraine is a good deal for NATO, for United States, for all of us. Then you asked me one more question, I think. QUESTION:  How long does Ukraine have before the (inaudible)? SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Well, the wars are by nature unpredictable, but the only thing we know is that – is that we need to continue to support them, and I’m confident that we will do so, and also when we meet here in Washington I am confident that Allies will again commit to sustain their support for Ukraine. MR MILLER:  Caitriona Perry with BBC. QUESTION:  Thank you.  Caitriona Perry with BBC News.  Mr. Secretary, if I could just follow up on my colleague’s comments there, you referred to a multistage response to yesterday’s attack.  Do you hold Iran directly responsible?  Do you consider the U.S. to be at war or on the verge of war at this point?  And what impact would any response have on the hostage ceasefire deal, which we’re told is at an advanced stage at this point?  And Mr. Secretary General, if I could ask you what NATO’s view is of the risk of the U.S. becoming involved in a direct conflict with Iran, what that means for NATO’s other priorities, including Ukraine.  And on the risk to further U.S. funding of Ukraine, can NATO and other allies, including the EU, keep Ukraine going without the U.S. if they need to do that?  And just on the point of EU and European countries, on the issue of Sweden and Hungary holding out on its ratification of membership, do you think – is that forthcoming soon, and what does that mean for future expansion of NATO?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  So the attacks that have taken place since October on our – on our forces, on our personnel in both Iraq and Syria have been conducted by groups that are aligned with Iran and indeed are supported by Iran, funded by Iran, equipped by Iran.  And I would note that the presence of our forces in both Iraq and Syria has nothing to do with Gaza, nothing to do with the conflict that’s taken place since October 7th, since the horrific attacks by Hamas, and everything to do with making sure that ISIS doesn’t re-emerge.  That’s why they’re there – something that Iran should share as an interest.  But on the contrary, the groups that are aligned with it have been conducting these attacks.  And as I mentioned, we do not seek conflict with Iran, we do not seek war with Iran, but we have and we will continue to defend our personnel and to take every action necessary to do that, including responding very vigorously to the attack that just took place.  And as I mentioned, I’m not going to get ahead of where the President is; I’m certainly not going to telegraph the response.  But as I mentioned, that response could well be multileveled, it could come in stages, and it could be sustained over time. At the same time, totally separately, we have been working to try to get hostages back out of Gaza and at the same time to get an extended pause in, and that effort is something that we are very, very actively pursuing right now with, of course, our partners in Qatar and Egypt as well as Israel.  Those who are trying to expand the conflict, broaden the conflict, escalate the conflict, they may say that they’re doing that somehow in response to Gaza, but every action they’re taking really is to perpetuate the conflict and to expand it.  They don’t have the interests of anyone in mind except their own interests, as they see them, and we’re determined, again, that we do everything possible not to see the conflict expand.  On the contrary, we’re working to end it, and end it in a way that the atrocities of October 7th never happen again as well as the suffering that we’ve seen on the part of Israelis and Palestinians alike doesn’t happen again.  That’s what we’re working toward and that’s where our focus is. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  First, on the issue of Swedish membership, I welcome, of course, that Türkiye now has finalized the ratification process with the decision in the parliament and also the signature from President Erdogan.  This demonstrates that Türkiye has followed up and delivered on what we all promised at the NATO Summit in Vilnius last summer, and it demonstrates that NATO’s door is open. I spoke last week with Prime Minister Orban of Hungary, because now Hungary is the only country that has not yet finalized the ratification process.  Prime Minister Orban was very clear that he supports Swedish membership of NATO.  He told me that the parliament in Hungary will reconvene at the end of February, and I expect also in line with what he has said that the parliament will then finalize the ratification shortly after that.  So I’m confident that Sweden will be a full member of the Alliance; that will make NATO stronger, it will send a clear message to Moscow, and it will demonstrate that it’s for NATO Allies to decide who’s going to be a member.  Moscow has no veto over NATO enlargement. Then on Iran, of course, Iran is responsible for destabilizing the whole region, threatening stability and security in the Middle East.  It is repressive at home and aggressive abroad.  We have seen this through many different attacks and also the different proxy groups, terrorist groups that Iran supports.  This underlines, of course, also the risk of escalation, and therefore I welcome the efforts by the United States to address these risks, and it is important that we also realize that Russia and Iran are now aligning more and more.  Russia is more and more dependent on drones from Iran – they actually built a new factory in Russia based on Iranian drone technology – and in return Russia is providing advanced technology to Iran.  So it demonstrates how authoritarian regimes are now coming closer and closer, and the only answer to that is that NATO Allies, all those countries that believe in democracy, have to stand together as we do in NATO. MR MILLER:  Alex Marquardt with CNN. QUESTION:  Thank you.  Mr. Secretary, if I could start with you, specifically about the hostage and ceasefire talks.  Can you share specifically what progress was made yesterday in Paris?  The Qatari prime minister after his meeting with you, he made it sound like a broad framework had been agreed to and it was being taken to Hamas for them to take a look at.  Do you believe that it is the language surrounding the end of hostilities that is the biggest sticking point?  And if you would also comment on how – to what extent Prime Minister Netanyahu’s comments about no Palestinian sovereignty, his leaked recording about criticizing Qatar, his ministers talking about resettling Gaza – to what extent has that complicated these conversations over an eventual deal? And Mr. Secretary General, following on some of my colleagues’ questions, how much do you think Ukraine’s war efforts are suffering because of the dwindling amount of U.S. aid and the uncertainty about whether more will be coming?  How can you convince the U.S. and others to continue sending advanced systems and large amounts of aid when they say that supply issues are growing?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  So first, of course, look, the less said the better in terms of where we are in pursuing a resumption of getting hostages out and back home with their families.  What I can tell you is this:  I think the work that’s been done, including just this weekend, is important and is hopeful in terms of seeing that process resume.  Recall that in the first go-around, we were able with our partners in Qatar and Egypt to get an agreement that resulted in the release of more than a hundred hostages, and I believe that the proposal that is on the table and that is shared among all of the critical actors – of course Israel, but also with Qatar and Egypt playing a critical role in mediating and working between Israel and Hamas – I believe the proposal is a strong one and a compelling one that, again, offers some hope that we can get back to this process.  But Hamas will have to make its own decisions.  I can just tell you that there is, again, strong, I would say, alignment among the countries involved that this is a good and strong proposal, and the work that was done over the weekend, including by CIA Director Bill Burns, was important in helping to advance this. As to comments that people make or that come out into the media, look, all I can tell you is this:  It’s my strong assessment that certainly Israel would very much like to see this process of hostages coming out resume.  It may be – well, I don’t want to speak for the Israelis, but I can certainly say from the perspective of the United States, because we of course have American citizens who are involved, this is at the very top of our list and has been from day one, and I believe that Israeli leadership and certainly Israeli society feels very, very strongly about it.  So we’ll see.  I can’t say anything more than that.  But I can say that very important, productive work has been done, and there is some real hope going forward. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  The United States has demonstrated leadership in mobilizing NATO Allies to support Ukraine, and I count on the United States, and I am confident that the United States will continue to do so because it is in the interest of the United States to ensure that President Putin does not win in Ukraine, and that we have to remember that this is something we have to do together, and – all NATO Allies and partners.  As Secretary Blinken just referred to, European Allies have actually provided more support in total for Ukraine than the United States.  I commend the United States, but we must not forget that this is a joint effort of all Allies, and if we put together what European Allies and Canada are providing, it actually exceeds the U.S. support.  So this is burden sharing, a joint effort by all Allies together.  And we do so in solidarity with Ukraine, but our support is not charity; it is an investment in our own security because we know that this is closely watched also in Beijing.  And we also see how China and Russia are aligning more and more, how China is propping up the Russian economy, including the defense production.  We see how China is repeating and spreading the same narrative about the war as Russia, how China has failed to condemn the illegal invasion of Ukraine.  And then we have to remember that just days before the full-scale invasion, China and Russia – President Xi and President Putin – signed a joint partnership agreement where they promised each other limitless partnership.  So I understand that many Allies are also concerned about China, but that’s not an argument for being less concerned about Ukraine.  Security is not regional; security is global.  What happens in Europe matters for Asia; what happens in Asia matters for Europe.  And today it’s Ukraine; tomorrow it can be Taiwan.  So therefore, it is in our interest to ensure that we provide the weapons and support they need.  And I’m confident that Allies will do so to – and to make sure that we can do that, we need the money, but we also need to ramp up production.  And I welcome what has been done in the United States.  Tomorrow I will go – on Wednesday, I will go to Alabama to – so a factory there where they are producing Javelins – Lockheed Martin – to recognize the importance of ramping up production.  We have to understand that the fact that European Allies are now investing more in defense is a good deal for the United States, demonstrating that NATO’s a good deal for the United States.  Just over the last two years, European NATO Allies have agreed contracts for the U.S. defense industry worth 120 billion U.S. dollars.  We need to do more, and therefore I welcome also that NATO has now, over the last months, actually agreed contracts worth $10 billion to ramp up production of ammunition, of interceptors for the Patriot batteries, and so on.  That enables to replenish our own stocks, but also to continue to provide support to Ukraine.  So we will – we are able, we have the will, and I’m confident that we’ll have the necessary decisions both in the United States and Europe to continue the support.  MR MILLER:  And for the final question, Anders Tvegard with Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation. QUESTION:  Thanks very much.  Mr. Secretary, your – the Biden administration’s policy on supporting Israel is unmistakable.  How would you look at the interim ruling by the World Court on Gaza?  And if I may, you talked about Congress and the funds.  What message does this send about U.S. leadership when your administration cannot – cannot or won’t hold words or promises?  I mean, you cannot fulfill them by action.  And Mr. Secretary General, Mr. Stoltenberg, you have now repeatedly warned about saying that China is watching the discussions over here about arming Ukraine.  How does this play out?  How will China use this?  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Let me take the second part of your question first.  I think you’ve heard both from me and from the secretary general how critical this ongoing funding is, both from the United States as well as from our partners and allies around the world.  And in fact, the EU – European Union – is also looking at additional support that it wants to provide to Ukraine, and that decision is also critical.  I think these are mutually reinforcing.  As Jens said, the fact that our own allies and partners have actually provided more than the United States, as much as we’ve already done, should reinforce the message to Congress as it’s considering the supplemental budget request that we really do have what is so critical, and that is burden sharing – that this is a load that is being borne more than equitably among allies and partners.  And by the way, not just in Europe; of course, we have key partners in other parts of the world, notably in Asia, who are participating in this. But equally, if the United States doesn’t follow through on our commitments, then it’s going to make it more difficult to have Europeans and others continue to do what they’ve already been doing.  So I think it matters a lot, more than a lot.  I think it’s essential that we do make good on our commitments.  And as we do, I’m convinced that allies and partners around the world will continue to do what they’ve been doing.  And I also remain confident that in Congress we continue to have strong and bipartisan support for Ukraine. So let’s see in the days and weeks ahead as this goes forward.  There is no other magic pot of money, and we are now currently out of the military assistance that we’ve been providing to Ukraine, and we’re even seeing some evidence of what that means on the battlefield.  So it is absolutely vital, absolutely urgent that we do it, and it is important in the terms that you’ve laid down, which is:  What does this mean for our word and our leadership around the world?  But I’m confident that as we do it you will see the benefits of that leadership with many other countries, allies and partners like, continuing to do what’s necessary with us to defend Ukraine. With regard to the ICJ ruling, first let me just say broadly that we continue to believe clearly that the allegations of genocide are without merit.  We have consistently made clear to Israel going back to the early days the imperative of taking every possible step to protect civilian life, to get humanitarian assistance to those who need it, and also to address dehumanizing rhetoric that we’ve heard from some individuals. The court in this decision agreed with that, and the court’s ruling is also very consistent with our view that Israel has the right to take action to ensure that the terrorist attacks of October 7th never happen again, in accordance with international law.  So I can just say we took note of the opinion.  We will continue to monitor the proceeding as it moves forward.  SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  China is not an adversary and I welcome the fact that the United States and other Allies engage with China in dialogue on issues of mutual concern like climate change and arms control.  But at the same time, we have to take seriously the consequences for our security – the significant military buildup which China now is undertaking, and also the fact that the war in Ukraine is bringing China and Russia closer with the substantial support that China provides to Russia in different ways and the promise of a limitless partnership in the midst of this brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. Of course, the size of the Chinese economy, the significant military buildup, all of that is a challenge for all NATO Allies, also for the United States.  The United States is by far the biggest Ally, but it is a great advantage even for the United States to have so many friends and Allies as you have in NATO.  No other major power – Russia and China has nothing similar.  The U.S. represents 25 percent of the world’s GDP, but together with NATO Allies we represent 50 percent of the world’s GDP and 50 percent of the world’s military might.  So there is no reason why the U.S. should deal with China alone.  Together we are so much stronger.  It demonstrates that NATO is a good deal for United States.  It’s good for all European Allies but also for the United States.  So therefore, one of the messages from the summit next summer I expect will be that we need to stand together in a more dangerous world.  NATO is more needed than ever because we live in a more unpredictable and dangerous world. MR MILLER:  Thank you. SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG:  Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.

Announcing the Secretary of State’s New Chief Economist

01/29/2024

Announcing the Secretary of State’s New Chief Economist 01/29/2024 07:33 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce the new U.S. Department of State Chief Economist, Dr. Chad P. Bown, who will serve as the Secretary of State’s most senior advisor on economics.  In this role, Dr. Bown will lead the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE), working to strengthen the Department’s ability to conduct economic analysis on high-priority issues, and to advance U.S. interests on foreign policy issues which have an economic dimension.  Dr. Bown will also lead OCE in building economic capacity and understanding within the Department of State, and in connecting the Department to domestic and international stakeholders in the community of professional economists. Dr. Bown’s extensive academic and research experience, coupled with his leadership in writing and public communication in the field of economics, make him uniquely qualified for this task.  Dr. Bown served as a Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics since 2016 and as a lead economist at the World Bank, advising governments on international trade policy.  He was a tenured professor of economics at Brandeis University for twelve years and served on the White House’s Council of Economic Advisers from 2010-2011.  Dr. Bown has collaborated with leading institutions including the World Bank to increase transparency around trade policies and trade barriers and has published extensively in leading economic journals. Dr. Bown’s appointment demonstrates Secretary Blinken’s commitment to the State Department’s modernization agenda, ensuring economic data and analysis is infused into the work of the Department at all levels.  The appointment also highlights the importance of increasing the Department’s ability to analyze and understand how economics influences virtually every major foreign policy challenge.  In this role, Dr. Bown will lead efforts by OCE’s team of professional economists to build on key economic workstreams within the Department to advance U.S. foreign policy interests. For further information or media inquiries, please communicate with E_Communications@state.gov. Tags Office of the Chief Economist Office of the Spokesperson

Announcing the Secretary of State’s New Chief Economist

01/29/2024

Announcing the Secretary of State’s New Chief Economist 01/29/2024 07:33 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce the new U.S. Department of State Chief Economist, Dr. Chad P. Bown, who will serve as the Secretary of State’s most senior advisor on economics.  In this role, Dr. Bown will lead the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE), working to strengthen the Department’s ability to conduct economic analysis on high-priority issues, and to advance U.S. interests on foreign policy issues which have an economic dimension.  Dr. Bown will also lead OCE in building economic capacity and understanding within the Department of State, and in connecting the Department to domestic and international stakeholders in the community of professional economists. Dr. Bown’s extensive academic and research experience, coupled with his leadership in writing and public communication in the field of economics, make him uniquely qualified for this task.  Dr. Bown served as a Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics since 2016 and as a lead economist at the World Bank, advising governments on international trade policy.  He was a tenured professor of economics at Brandeis University for twelve years and served on the White House’s Council of Economic Advisers from 2010-2011.  Dr. Bown has collaborated with leading institutions including the World Bank to increase transparency around trade policies and trade barriers and has published extensively in leading economic journals. Dr. Bown’s appointment demonstrates Secretary Blinken’s commitment to the State Department’s modernization agenda, ensuring economic data and analysis is infused into the work of the Department at all levels.  The appointment also highlights the importance of increasing the Department’s ability to analyze and understand how economics influences virtually every major foreign policy challenge.  In this role, Dr. Bown will lead efforts by OCE’s team of professional economists to build on key economic workstreams within the Department to advance U.S. foreign policy interests. For further information or media inquiries, please communicate with E_Communications@state.gov. Tags Office of the Chief Economist Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani

01/30/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani 01/30/2024 08:19 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Washington, D.C.  The leaders discussed the importance of facilitating the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas.  Secretary Blinken additionally expressed gratitude for Qatar’s indispensable mediation efforts, especially since October 7.  They agreed to continue close coordination to provide increased humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza and to urge the protection of civilians consistent with humanitarian law.  Secretary Blinken underscored the U.S. commitment to a more peaceful, integrated, and prosperous Middle East region with security for Israel and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.  They also discussed concerns with the Houthi threat to navigational rights and freedoms in the Red Sea.  The leaders reaffirmed the strength and importance of the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship in promoting regional security and stability, founded on a history of over 50 years of close cooperation.

Venezuela: Sanctions Actions and Supporting Democracy

01/30/2024

Venezuela: Sanctions Actions and Supporting Democracy 01/30/2024 09:30 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson Actions by Nicolas Maduro and his representatives in Venezuela, including the arrest of members of the democratic opposition and the barring of candidates from competing in this year’s presidential election, are inconsistent with the agreements signed in Barbados last October by representatives of Nicolas Maduro and the Unitary Platform. In support of the Barbados Agreement, the United States issued General License 44, which provides relief to Venezuela’s oil and gas sector. Absent progress between Maduro and his representatives and the opposition Unitary Platform, particularly on allowing all presidential candidates to compete in this year’s election, the United States will not renew the license when it expires on April 18, 2024. Additionally, the United States is revoking General License 43, which authorized transactions involving Minerven – the Venezuelan state-owned gold mining company. U.S. persons will have fourteen days to wind down any transactions that were previously authorized by that license. The United States remains strongly committed to supporting dialogue between the parties and to the aspirations of the Venezuelan people for a democratic future. We will continue to work with the international community and all peaceful democratic actors across the political spectrum in Venezuela and leverage mechanisms at our disposal to encourage a return to the principles in the Barbados agreement. The Barbados electoral roadmap agreement remains the most viable mechanism to resolving Venezuela’s longstanding political, economic, and humanitarian crisis and realizing competitive and inclusive elections in Venezuela, but that will require Maduro and his representatives upholding the roadmap’s principles and ensuring that opposition political actors have the right to select their candidates for the 2024 presidential election freely.

Nauru National Day

01/30/2024

Nauru National Day 01/30/2024 11:58 AM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to extend my congratulations to the Republic of Nauru as it celebrates the 56th anniversary of its independence. As proud members of a common Pacific family, the United States and Nauru share a history of democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. We will continue to work together to address the shared challenges facing our two countries, including confronting the climate crisis, advancing economic prosperity, and promoting a free and open Blue Pacific region. As we look ahead to deepening our bilateral relationship over the next year, my best wishes are with the people of Nauru.

Nauru National Day

01/30/2024

Nauru National Day 01/30/2024 11:58 AM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to extend my congratulations to the Republic of Nauru as it celebrates the 56th anniversary of its independence. As proud members of a common Pacific family, the United States and Nauru share a history of democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. We will continue to work together to address the shared challenges facing our two countries, including confronting the climate crisis, advancing economic prosperity, and promoting a free and open Blue Pacific region. As we look ahead to deepening our bilateral relationship over the next year, my best wishes are with the people of Nauru.

Designating ISIS Supporters

01/30/2024

Designating ISIS Supporters 01/30/2024 12:10 PM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States is today designating two individuals who have helped create, manage, and support an ISIS affiliated platform that provides ISIS leadership and supporters with technical cybersecurity training, enabled ISIS’s use of virtual currency, and supported the terrorist group’s recruitment. We are also designating one financial facilitator involved in transferring funds to ISIS-affiliated individuals in Syria. Today’s actions reinforce the United States’ commitment to the mission of the Counter ISIS Finance Group (CIFG), a working group of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS comprising over 80 countries and international organizations. These actions also coincide with the 19th meeting of the CIFG to discuss the disruption of ISIS financing networks around the world. Our actions today target the terrorist group’s facilitation activities online—including the group’s use of virtual currency, recruitment, and promotion of its terrorist ideology—as well as ISIS’s transfers of funds to its supporters.  Together with our international partners, the United States is committed to countering ISIS and those who provide logistical, technical, or financial support to terrorist groups. The Department of the Treasury action was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13224, as amended.  For more information on this designation, see Treasury’s press release.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager At the Fifth U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting

01/30/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager At the Fifth U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting 01/30/2024 01:32 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Benjamin Franklin Room SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good morning, everyone.  It is wonderful to have our friends and colleagues from the EU here in Washington for our Trade and Technology Council number five. Let me just say at the outset, in the challenge of these times it is particularly valuable and appreciated by the United States to have in the EU a partner of first resort, not last resort.  And if we look at the many challenges that we’re working on closely together, we know that we reinforce each other, and that makes a big difference.  We, obviously, have a partnership that’s built on commonly shared values, shared interests, and an extraordinary and thriving transatlantic economy. Let me just say briefly about the TTC itself, I found in my experience – and I think I can speak as well for Gina and Katherine – that this has been an indispensable tool for transatlantic economic cooperation.  And we’ve seen tremendous progress over the last couple of years: aligning technology standards, building resilience in our supply chains, stopping the evasion of Russian sanctions and export controls, and countering some of the non-market practices of the PRC, as well as engaging on – against economic coercion. This session today will hopefully – and I know – build on the progress that we’ve made in the previous TTCs.  We’ll be focusing on economic security, on emerging technology, and on locking in achievements in the run-up to what will be really the capstone TTC in Belgium later this year. For economic security, I think there’s a common recognition that we must continue to de-risk our economies, to diversify further our supply chains, to focus on common threats – including authoritarian governments that may misuse technology.  And this is maybe one of the greatest shared challenges we face and concerns that our citizens have, because it’s something that affects them every single day in their lives. We also have work to do – but I think also opportunity – in together looking at how we can help shape some of the norms, the standards, the rules by which emerging technology are used, again, things that shape the lives of our citizens every single day.  We’ve already made – but we can build on – joint progress on artificial intelligence.  I think there’s a real opportunity to jointly develop responsible rules of the road for AI and other emerging technologies.  And then continuing to use the TTC as an avenue to be able to forge ahead on critical issues and managing risks of other cutting-edge technologies. So there’s a lot to cover today, as there always is.  Margrethe, let me give the floor to you, and then we can actually get down to work.  And we may even get down to lunch after that.  (Laughter.) MS VESTAGER:  Yeah.  Without sharing food, you will get nowhere. Well, first and foremost, thank you very much for hosting us in these exquisite rooms.  This is – it’s an honor for us to be here.  And I just want to basically mirror what you just said, because the Trade and Technology Council has become absolutely key to our geopolitical agenda.  It’s constructive; it is committed; it produces results.  And I think it’s for – I’ve learned a lot from this, and I hope also for the future a lot of learnings can be taken to continue deepening the relationship. The setup that we have – not only between us getting to know one another, trust one another, but also for the teams to get to know each other in full – I think that cannot be overestimated.  That was what made us so efficient in the sanctions against Russia.  Everybody had met each other.  They knew the phone numbers, the mail addresses, the values, what they wanted to put into real life. And building on that, what we have done on semiconductors, which is essential for our economies but also essential for geopolitical balances; how we from very early days agreed on the approach to artificial intelligence with an optimistic view for the innovation, while being cautious for the risks; and now I think also moving ahead to see how can we embark on a quantum travel together.  So still a lot to do to give real muscle to our mutual considerations of economic security. I think this has shown that when we praise the transatlantic relationship, it’s not just for the speeches – it’s also real life.  And once again proven that if you want to deliver to your own citizens, you need to have a common solution.  I think it is amazing what we are achieving of amazing results to the benefit of citizens.  I think we see that with stakeholders, every one of us just this morning – Gina and I was with stakeholders of the semiconductor industry.  And they come, they share with us, and I think there is a great deal of appreciation of this investment on both sides. So thank you very much for this, and looking very much forward for the meeting today. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Margrethe, thank you so much.  And again, Thierry, Valdis, welcome, welcome, welcome.  Thanks, everyone.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager At the Fifth U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting

01/30/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager At the Fifth U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting 01/30/2024 01:32 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Benjamin Franklin Room SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good morning, everyone.  It is wonderful to have our friends and colleagues from the EU here in Washington for our Trade and Technology Council number five. Let me just say at the outset, in the challenge of these times it is particularly valuable and appreciated by the United States to have in the EU a partner of first resort, not last resort.  And if we look at the many challenges that we’re working on closely together, we know that we reinforce each other, and that makes a big difference.  We, obviously, have a partnership that’s built on commonly shared values, shared interests, and an extraordinary and thriving transatlantic economy. Let me just say briefly about the TTC itself, I found in my experience – and I think I can speak as well for Gina and Katherine – that this has been an indispensable tool for transatlantic economic cooperation.  And we’ve seen tremendous progress over the last couple of years: aligning technology standards, building resilience in our supply chains, stopping the evasion of Russian sanctions and export controls, and countering some of the non-market practices of the PRC, as well as engaging on – against economic coercion. This session today will hopefully – and I know – build on the progress that we’ve made in the previous TTCs.  We’ll be focusing on economic security, on emerging technology, and on locking in achievements in the run-up to what will be really the capstone TTC in Belgium later this year. For economic security, I think there’s a common recognition that we must continue to de-risk our economies, to diversify further our supply chains, to focus on common threats – including authoritarian governments that may misuse technology.  And this is maybe one of the greatest shared challenges we face and concerns that our citizens have, because it’s something that affects them every single day in their lives. We also have work to do – but I think also opportunity – in together looking at how we can help shape some of the norms, the standards, the rules by which emerging technology are used, again, things that shape the lives of our citizens every single day.  We’ve already made – but we can build on – joint progress on artificial intelligence.  I think there’s a real opportunity to jointly develop responsible rules of the road for AI and other emerging technologies.  And then continuing to use the TTC as an avenue to be able to forge ahead on critical issues and managing risks of other cutting-edge technologies. So there’s a lot to cover today, as there always is.  Margrethe, let me give the floor to you, and then we can actually get down to work.  And we may even get down to lunch after that.  (Laughter.) MS VESTAGER:  Yeah.  Without sharing food, you will get nowhere. Well, first and foremost, thank you very much for hosting us in these exquisite rooms.  This is – it’s an honor for us to be here.  And I just want to basically mirror what you just said, because the Trade and Technology Council has become absolutely key to our geopolitical agenda.  It’s constructive; it is committed; it produces results.  And I think it’s for – I’ve learned a lot from this, and I hope also for the future a lot of learnings can be taken to continue deepening the relationship. The setup that we have – not only between us getting to know one another, trust one another, but also for the teams to get to know each other in full – I think that cannot be overestimated.  That was what made us so efficient in the sanctions against Russia.  Everybody had met each other.  They knew the phone numbers, the mail addresses, the values, what they wanted to put into real life. And building on that, what we have done on semiconductors, which is essential for our economies but also essential for geopolitical balances; how we from very early days agreed on the approach to artificial intelligence with an optimistic view for the innovation, while being cautious for the risks; and now I think also moving ahead to see how can we embark on a quantum travel together.  So still a lot to do to give real muscle to our mutual considerations of economic security. I think this has shown that when we praise the transatlantic relationship, it’s not just for the speeches – it’s also real life.  And once again proven that if you want to deliver to your own citizens, you need to have a common solution.  I think it is amazing what we are achieving of amazing results to the benefit of citizens.  I think we see that with stakeholders, every one of us just this morning – Gina and I was with stakeholders of the semiconductor industry.  And they come, they share with us, and I think there is a great deal of appreciation of this investment on both sides. So thank you very much for this, and looking very much forward for the meeting today. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Margrethe, thank you so much.  And again, Thierry, Valdis, welcome, welcome, welcome.  Thanks, everyone.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager At the Fifth U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting

01/30/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager At the Fifth U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting 01/30/2024 01:32 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Benjamin Franklin Room SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good morning, everyone.  It is wonderful to have our friends and colleagues from the EU here in Washington for our Trade and Technology Council number five. Let me just say at the outset, in the challenge of these times it is particularly valuable and appreciated by the United States to have in the EU a partner of first resort, not last resort.  And if we look at the many challenges that we’re working on closely together, we know that we reinforce each other, and that makes a big difference.  We, obviously, have a partnership that’s built on commonly shared values, shared interests, and an extraordinary and thriving transatlantic economy. Let me just say briefly about the TTC itself, I found in my experience – and I think I can speak as well for Gina and Katherine – that this has been an indispensable tool for transatlantic economic cooperation.  And we’ve seen tremendous progress over the last couple of years: aligning technology standards, building resilience in our supply chains, stopping the evasion of Russian sanctions and export controls, and countering some of the non-market practices of the PRC, as well as engaging on – against economic coercion. This session today will hopefully – and I know – build on the progress that we’ve made in the previous TTCs.  We’ll be focusing on economic security, on emerging technology, and on locking in achievements in the run-up to what will be really the capstone TTC in Belgium later this year. For economic security, I think there’s a common recognition that we must continue to de-risk our economies, to diversify further our supply chains, to focus on common threats – including authoritarian governments that may misuse technology.  And this is maybe one of the greatest shared challenges we face and concerns that our citizens have, because it’s something that affects them every single day in their lives. We also have work to do – but I think also opportunity – in together looking at how we can help shape some of the norms, the standards, the rules by which emerging technology are used, again, things that shape the lives of our citizens every single day.  We’ve already made – but we can build on – joint progress on artificial intelligence.  I think there’s a real opportunity to jointly develop responsible rules of the road for AI and other emerging technologies.  And then continuing to use the TTC as an avenue to be able to forge ahead on critical issues and managing risks of other cutting-edge technologies. So there’s a lot to cover today, as there always is.  Margrethe, let me give the floor to you, and then we can actually get down to work.  And we may even get down to lunch after that.  (Laughter.) MS VESTAGER:  Yeah.  Without sharing food, you will get nowhere. Well, first and foremost, thank you very much for hosting us in these exquisite rooms.  This is – it’s an honor for us to be here.  And I just want to basically mirror what you just said, because the Trade and Technology Council has become absolutely key to our geopolitical agenda.  It’s constructive; it is committed; it produces results.  And I think it’s for – I’ve learned a lot from this, and I hope also for the future a lot of learnings can be taken to continue deepening the relationship. The setup that we have – not only between us getting to know one another, trust one another, but also for the teams to get to know each other in full – I think that cannot be overestimated.  That was what made us so efficient in the sanctions against Russia.  Everybody had met each other.  They knew the phone numbers, the mail addresses, the values, what they wanted to put into real life. And building on that, what we have done on semiconductors, which is essential for our economies but also essential for geopolitical balances; how we from very early days agreed on the approach to artificial intelligence with an optimistic view for the innovation, while being cautious for the risks; and now I think also moving ahead to see how can we embark on a quantum travel together.  So still a lot to do to give real muscle to our mutual considerations of economic security. I think this has shown that when we praise the transatlantic relationship, it’s not just for the speeches – it’s also real life.  And once again proven that if you want to deliver to your own citizens, you need to have a common solution.  I think it is amazing what we are achieving of amazing results to the benefit of citizens.  I think we see that with stakeholders, every one of us just this morning – Gina and I was with stakeholders of the semiconductor industry.  And they come, they share with us, and I think there is a great deal of appreciation of this investment on both sides. So thank you very much for this, and looking very much forward for the meeting today. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Margrethe, thank you so much.  And again, Thierry, Valdis, welcome, welcome, welcome.  Thanks, everyone.

Department Press Briefing – January 30, 2024

01/30/2024

Department Press Briefing – January 30, 2024 01/30/2024 06:40 PM EST HomeDepartment Press Briefing – January 30, 2024 hide Department Press Briefing – January 30, 2024 January 30, 2024 1:25 p.m. EST MR MILLER: Hello, everyone. It seems dark in here. It seems like you guys are in the dark a little bit. Maybe it’s just because I haven’t been here in a few days. No, there we go. Let there be light. QUESTION: And then there was light. MR MILLER: And there was light. (Laughter.) Okay. I don’t have anything to start. Matt, you want to — QUESTION: Really, you have nothing to start? Okay. So let me just start by one – to ask two separate things on the Gaza situation. One is, do you yet have a better idea of the aid – the money suspension to UNRWA, how much it is and how long it will last, that kind of thing? MR MILLER: So — QUESTION: And then I have a second, which is related but not the same. MR MILLER: So it’s a complicated question to answer, and I’ll explain why. So we have provided already in this fiscal year around $121 million to UNRWA. We are the largest donor, or historically every year have been the largest donor to UNRWA, in the world. We have remaining about 300,000 – a little more than 300,000 — QUESTION: Oh, 300,000. MR MILLER: — in funds to – that we were planning to provide to UNRWA. That funding has been suspended. That would not be the total of our funding in this fiscal year. We would provide other funding, but it’s kind of difficult – it’s really impossible to say how much that would be, because, as you know, we are operating under a continuing resolution. We don’t know how much overall funding will be available for this fiscal year, and that would impact how much that we would be able to provide UNRWA. Historically, we have typically provided somewhere between 300 and 400 million dollars a year in funding. QUESTION: So since October 1st, when the fiscal year started, you’ve given them 121 million? MR MILLER: Around 121 million. Yes. QUESTION: Okay. And then the – this 300,000 that you say was suspended that has — MR MILLER: Planning to be delivered in the next couple of weeks, and it was suspended. QUESTION: Okay. So that – so that means that you had – even in the CR or whatever the budget document is, you had only through the next couple weeks 121.3 million? MR MILLER: Around – yeah, roughly. And we — QUESTION: And then there was going to be more — MR MILLER: More funding — QUESTION: — if and when the supplemental gets passed? MR MILLER: It’s – our next scheduled payment, not officially scheduled because the supplemental and the CR have not passed, but we would anticipate would have happened sometime over the summer. And the amount of the next payment would be dependent on how much funding was contained in the supplemental and a CR, or, if not a CR, a full appropriations bill. QUESTION: But the – but the immediate impact of the temporary pause that was announced on Friday is 300,000? MR MILLER: Correct. QUESTION: And then – and, again, you don’t – you don’t know when that might be unfrozen or when the pause might be made permanent? MR MILLER: So it will depend on the investigation that UNRWA is undertaking, that the United Nations is undertaking, and whatever remedial steps they put into place. QUESTION: In the meantime, is there any way or is there any option for getting the 300,000 in suspended assistance into Gaza without going through UNRWA? MR MILLER: No, but — QUESTION: No? MR MILLER: — what I would say to that is, first of all, let me just back up and say – and we made this clear in the statement. You heard the Secretary speak to this yesterday. We very much support the work that UNRWA does. We think it’s critical. There is no other humanitarian player in Gaza who can provide food and water and medicine at the scale that UNRWA does. We want to see that work continued, which is why it is so important that the United Nations take this matter seriously, that they investigate it, that there is accountability for anyone who is found to have engaged in wrongdoing, and that they take whatever other measures are appropriate to ensure that this sort of thing cannot happen again. QUESTION: Okay. And then my second thing, which is a related but not UNRWA, which has to do with this operation that the Israelis launched in Jenin, the hospital today. What – do you have any comment on that? Is this something that you think is problematic or is it something that you look at with envy, like this is some kind of great “Mission: Impossible” mission that we wish that we could also do? MR MILLER: So I’d say that we strongly urge caution whenever operations have the potential to impact civilians and civilian installations. That of course includes hospitals. We do recognize the very real security challenges Israel faces, and its legitimate right to defend its people and its territory from terrorism. Israel, of course, has the right to carry out operations to bring terrorists to justice, but those operations need to be conducted in full compliance with international humanitarian law. QUESTION: Well, the – do those operations include going into hospitals and murdering people in their beds regardless of whether they’re — MR MILLER: So — QUESTION: — that they are suspected or even known terrorists? Is that okay with you guys? MR MILLER: So there was a lot in the premise of that question. Obviously, they – we did – do know that they went into — QUESTION: Well, you don’t think that they went in — MR MILLER: We – well, hold on. QUESTION: — and killed people who are completely innocent, do you? MR MILLER: We – so let me say that this — QUESTION: Because if you did think that, then you would be condemning it, right? MR MILLER: We certainly would, but I would say that Israel has said that these were Hamas operatives. They have said that one of them was carrying a gun at the time of the operation. So I’m not able to speak to the facts of the operation. You’d have to pass some kind of legal judgement – know all of the facts of the operation. But as a general matter, they do have the right to carry out operations to bring terrorists to justice, but they need to be conducted in full — QUESTION: Including in hospitals? MR MILLER: So we want them to conduct their operations in compliance with international humanitarian law. We would generally say that we don’t want them to carry out operations in hospitals, but under international humanitarian law, hospitals do lose some of their protections if they are being used to – for the planning of terrorist operations, for the execution of terrorist operations. QUESTION: The actual hospital – the actual hospital building does. But I mean, going in disguised as women and doctors and whatever is something different, and then going in and picking out people in particular rooms and particular beds and killing them seems to be something different. MR MILLER: So again, not able to offer an assessment without knowing all these facts. I said some of the facts that have been presented by Israel are that one of them was carrying a gun and that they were planning to carry out or to launch terrorist operations. So you would have to look at all of those facts to make a specific assessment about this operation. But in general, we do want to see hospitals protected. It is important that no civilians were harmed in this operation, but – and as I said, we want – we do believe Israel has — QUESTION: So how do you know – how do you know that? MR MILLER: There have been no reports of civilians who have been harmed in this operation. QUESTION: Can I follow up on that, please? MR MILLER: Go ahead, Said. QUESTION: Thank you. Actually, on both points. But on this particular one, I mean, Israel occupies the whole West Bank. They are under their control. They don’t need to disguise themselves as medics and go into a hospital and kill people, which you called non-civilians. They are actually civilians, but that’s beside the point. So — MR MILLER: I – so that is very much – but hold on. QUESTION: Just allow me. Allow me just to follow up. MR MILLER: No, Said, but before you call someone a civilian that Israel has said is a member of Hamas, I need to put on the record that that is very much a question that’s in dispute. QUESTION: There are civilian members of Hamas; it’s a political organization. I mean, you may disagree with their politics, but that does not make them militants, right? Or — MR MILLER: I would very much — QUESTION: Okay. MR MILLER: I would very much disagree with that, Said. QUESTION: That is — MR MILLER: They’re a terrorist organization as have been — QUESTION: Right, but that — MR MILLER: — have been designated by the United States of America. QUESTION: Right, but that’s an accusation of the occupier, a military occupier. They are making the accusation. I want to ask you: Is that a conduct befitting a state or a group of gangsters to go in and kill people, assassinate them as they sat in their beds? MR MILLER: So — QUESTION: Is that the conduct of a state? Will the United States ever do something like this under similar circumstances? MR MILLER: So, Said, I am going to first of all note for the record, because it is important to note for the record, that Hamas is a brutal terrorist organization that carried out the brutal murder of 1,200 people on October 7th and — QUESTION: We’re talking about the Bank, the West Bank. We’re talking about the West Bank, not Gaza. MR MILLER: — and there are members of Hamas – and there are members of Hamas in the West Bank. And in addition to carrying out the brutal murder — QUESTION: Right. MR MILLER: — of 1,200 people on October 7th, has hid behind civilians in Gaza and been responsible for the death of many, many Palestinian civilians who they use as human shields. So before we talk about the people who died in this operation, I think it’s important to talk about who Hamas is, and it is not just – it is not a political organization, Hamas. It is – or Said. It is a terrorist organization that has carried out terrorist acts to kill civilians and has said it wants to continue to carry out those terrorist acts over and over again, and that context is important because Israel has the right to carry out antiterrorism operations to bring members of Hamas to justice. But as I said, we want them to be carried out in full — QUESTION: I am asking you — MR MILLER: Said, let me finish – in full compliance with international humanitarian law. QUESTION: I’m asking you: Is this a conduct befitting a state that controls every single person in that whole territory? MR MILLER: We think it is appropriate that they have the ability to bring members of Hamas to justice. QUESTION: Fair enough, fair enough. That’s your answer. MR MILLER: But that – but, as I said, it needs to be done in compliance with international humanitarian law. QUESTION: Let me ask you on the UNRWA thing. Now, you’re cutting off aid at a time when several human rights officials are really warning that Gaza is on the verge of starvation. I mean, this is – it’s a real possibility. These people are facing famine and starvation, and you cut off aid because there is, allegedly, 12 people that are members of Hamas or have done this and so on, out of 12,000 employees. I mean, nobody talks about 158 employees by UNRWA – employed by UNRWA that were killed by the Israelis. But I want to go back to the issue of famine and the likelihood of starvation and famine and so on. What is your response to that? MR MILLER: So the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. You have seen us focus from the beginning of this conflict on trying to improve the humanitarian situation. You’ve seen the Secretary travel to Israel to press Israeli officials to allow more humanitarian assistance to flow into Gaza. We have a special envoy we appointed who is in the region working every day on increasing the amount of food and water and medicine that goes into Gaza. And you have heard us say – and the Secretary traveled and met with members of UNRWA in the region – how important the work that UNRWA is – or that UNRWA does is to Gaza and to civilians in Gaza, and it’s important that work be continued. And I would say it is because that work is so important that it is also important that UNRWA and the United Nations take this investigation seriously. I note the – you said “allegedly,” and that is very much true, but UNRWA found that the evidence that was presented to them was credible enough that they fired eight of these employees and have suspended two others. And so we think the work’s important, but this is an investigation that needs to be conducted thoroughly. There needs to be accountability. If appropriate, there need to be remedial measures to ensure that this can’t happen again. And there’s no reason that the United Nations can’t do this investigation quickly. And in fact, because of the important work that UNRWA does, it’s important that they do carry out this investigation quickly. QUESTION: So what would be satisfactory for the United States and its allies to sort of say, okay, aid will resume? MR MILLER: So I will only speak for the United Nations – or for the United States, not for other countries. But the steps that I just outlined are what we want to see, a full investigation. And as we said in the statement we put out on Friday and we have said since then, we welcome the investigation that the United Nations has launched. We want to see accountability. We’ve seen initial steps to accountability in that UNRWA has fired eight of the employees and suspended two others while they conduct the investigation. And we want to see measures put in place to ensure, to the extent possible, that this can never happen again. And so we are engaging with UNRWA. We are engaging with the United Nations about what those steps ought to look like. I won’t read out the details of those conversations, but they are in the buckets that I just outlined. QUESTION: Thank you. MR MILLER: Simon, go ahead. QUESTION: I want to come back to the ICJ ruling last week, because you haven’t had a briefing since then. Before the ruling, your colleague – we were asking what the U.S. view would be on whether Israel is compelled to follow what the court was asking it to do. I wonder, you have responded to the – the State Department has responded to the ruling, but on the specific – I guess one specific thing that the ruling requested of Israel is to report within a month on what it’s doing to ensure that genocide isn’t taking place. Is that something that the U.S. is calling on Israel to comply with? MR MILLER: So I will say that a number of the things the court called on for Israel to do are things that we have said in our public statements and in fact in our private meetings with Israel. We’ve wanted to see them do more to allow humanitarian assistance to go into Gaza. We’ve wanted to see them do more to ensure that civilians are protected. And I will say we respect the court’s decision; we respect their ruling, as we said last week. And we expect Israel to determine what it has to do to comply with that ruling. It’s not a ruling that’s directed to us; it’s a ruling that’s directed to Israel. But we do expect them to determine what they need to do to comply with the court’s ruling, and we’ll be engaging with them about that matter. QUESTION: After there’s a ruling, you’re able to say, okay, we’re happy with everything in here so our partner Israel should comply with what they – the way they deem — MR MILLER: I think that we never want to address hypotheticals before they happen. So yes, we’re willing to comment on things after they happen, but not hypotheticals before they do. That’s general standing practice. QUESTION: I mean, you might call this a hypothetical, but the court is also going to rule on Friday this week on – regarding the case with Ukraine and Russia. In that case, would you expect states to comply with what the ICJ says? MR MILLER: I can guarantee that we will have something to say about that ruling after it happens. I wouldn’t want to preview what that would be. But as is true in this case, we certainly respect the court and its decisions. QUESTION: Could I just follow up briefly on your response? MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: When you said that you expect Israel – we expect them to determine what they need to do to comply, is that different from comply? MR MILLER: Yeah – I don’t want – only because the court had a number of things that it prescribed and I don’t want to tick through those one by one, because they are not orders that were directed at us. We do expect Israel to comply with the ruling, but in terms of what the specific steps are, I would expect them to determine that, not the United States. Yeah, go ahead. QUESTION: Back to the UN, Wall Street Journal’s reporting that they’ve reviewed intelligence that shows 1,200 UNRWA staffers have ties to Islamic Jihad. Does State have any concerns that the ties to terrorists among the staff goes at all beyond those 12, 13 who have been named in the — MR MILLER: So this is a matter that we want to see investigated, and it is why we think an investigation is so important and that it be conducted thoroughly and it be conducted promptly. And we very much look forward to seeing the outcome of that investigation. QUESTION: Are you concerned that that investigation is being – I mean, the UN has said a couple of times in public statements that it’s an independent investigation, but it’s very much not. It’s being conducted by a UN internal office. Do you have full trust that the U.S. is going to investigate itself and these allegations fairly? MR MILLER: We do have confidence in the UN’s ability to conduct this investigation. We have been engaging with them about what that investigation might look like. I will keep those conversations private, but we do broadly have faith in their ability to investigate this. We’ve welcomed the initial steps that they have taken, but the proof will be in the pudding. I don’t want to judge anything in advance. We want to see a full, transparent, complete, prompt investigation, and any remedial steps that it recommends, as appropriate, we want to see implemented. QUESTION: Any expectations for how long the investigation might kind of come to a conclusion? Are you thinking weeks, month? MR MILLER: I would defer to the United Nations on that specific question, but I would say because the humanitarian situation is so urgent in Gaza, that just highlights how important it is that they do conduct this investigation promptly, conduct it thoroughly, and take any actions as – that they need to take to remedy the situation as soon as possible. QUESTION: And what mechanisms are you guys looking – meaning if this investigation finds that these – the firings were rightfully made, that these individuals helped Hamas carry out the October 7th attacks, is – what kind of action – do you guys want to see sort of criminal indictments against these folks? MR MILLER: Certainly we would welcome full accountability. We would demand full accountability, and of course that could include prosecutions for anyone that had violated the law. Go ahead. QUESTION: On the hostage talks, Matt, officials, including the Secretary, have been publicly telegraphing optimism around this latest round of talks. Can you give us any details on what’s underscoring these public pronouncements of hope and a strong proposal on the table? MR MILLER: So let me echo something the Secretary said yesterday, which is: the less said about these, the better. As the Secretary noted, we do believe it is a strong proposal that’s on the table. We do believe it’s a proposal that – or not – it is a proposal that would lead to – could lead to a sustained pause in fighting and the return of hostages, something that has been a goal of the United States and other countries in the region. So we hope this proposal will be accepted; we hope it’ll be implemented. And we hope to see a pause in fighting and hostages returned to their families, and we’ll keep working on it. But as to any underlying details, I’m not – I don’t think I should comment on them. QUESTION: Does the U.S. have any comment on Prime Minister Netanyahu’s comment’s today sort of doubling down on this maximalist approach, saying they would not pull out troops from Gaza, saying – keeping to these maximalist aims and saying they wouldn’t release thousands of terrorists in exchange — MR MILLER: I don’t. I think I will – as I said, I think when it comes to this very delicate matter, the less said the better. And I think we’ll do our negotiating in private, not public. QUESTION: And then on the UN assessment mission that the Secretary announced on his last trip to Israel, do you have any updates on when that might happen, the scope, anything? MR MILLER: Yeah. So I don’t know if we’ve said this from here, but the assessment mission was delayed because of a renewed outbreak in fighting in the north. We saw Hamas fighters pop up and start launching rocket attacks into Israel, start shooting at Israeli forces. That made the conditions on the ground not tenable for conducting this humanitarian mission, not safe to conduct an assessment mission. We have been engaging with the United Nations and with the Government of Israel on this matter. As you know, it’s something we’ve said and we want to see launched as soon as possible. We do expect some initial movements north to take place in the next few days to pave the groundwork for that assessment mission to move forward. And our hope would be, as I said, after that initial step takes place, that the assessment mission itself could move forward really just as soon as possible. QUESTION: What sort of paving has to be done for this to take place? MR MILLER: They have to assess conditions on the ground. You actually have to assess – before you can send the assessment mission in, you have to assess security conditions, the conditions of the road, how you would move and where, and some kind of factual and logistics things like that, to make sure that the assessment mission itself can be conducted as safely as possible. That’s what we anticipate happening over the next few days to pave the way for the assessment mission to go forward. QUESTION: And then – last question – a group of Democratic lawmakers wrote to the Secretary asking for answers about his use of an emergency declaration to send arms to Israel last month twice. Does the – or the building intend to respond to their questions by February 9th? Any comment on that letter? MR MILLER: So we always welcome engagement with Congress, and we will engage with them on this question, as we always do. I would say that the process that the Secretary followed and the process that we followed here at the State Department is the process that the law actually prescribes. There are two procedures for providing arms sales to foreign countries – well, more than that, but two in this specific section of the law. One of them allows for us to go to Congress and provide Congress with notice, and there’s a review period. And the other specifically prescribes a situation in which there is an emergency need for transfer of arms, that we can provide that arms – that we can provide those arms through a different process, and that is the process that we carried out. So I see this described all the time as bypassing Congress. In fact, what we’re doing is following the statute that Congress passed. And so we – and I will add that in each of these two situations when we did it, we did it in consultation with leading members of Congress, and we’ll, of course, continue to do that with respect to all of our arms transfers. Shaun — QUESTION: Can I go to another region? MR MILLER: Yeah, of course. QUESTION: Do we have more on the Mideast? Venezuela. MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: The statement that you issued this morning – it gives a date of April, I believe it is, for these sanctions to go into effect. Is there some hope that this could actually change the Maduro – that Maduro could actually – that Venezuela could allow opposition candidates in by then? MR MILLER: So we very much hope that they will abide by the agreement that Maduro’s representatives reached in Barbados. We very much hope that they will uphold the electoral roadmap agreement. That would mean announcing an electoral calendar that is agreed upon with democratic opposition. It would mean that the – an audit and update of the electoral registry, the release of additional political prisoners. And most importantly, it would mean that all democratic opposition political candidates could freely participate in the 2024 presidential election. And that is, of course, not what we have seen. So we very much hope that the government will reverse the steps it’s taken. But we are ready to snap back our sanctions if they don’t. As you saw, what we announced today, there is one general license with respect to gold trading that we have already revoked. There is another one that is set to expire in April that pertains to the oil industry. And absent a change in course from the government, we will allow that general license to expire, and our sanctions will snap back into place. So we went into this process with good faith. We wanted to accomplish several things. One, we wanted to secure the release of the ten Americans who are being held by Venezuela – six wrongfully detained and four others. We wanted to secure the release of a fugitive from justice. We were able to accomplish both of those things. We wanted to see Venezuela get back on the path to democracy, and we all made clear that if they didn’t we had the ability to snap back our sanctions, and we remain willing and committed to doing so if they do not change course. QUESTION: Where does that leave U.S. policy if it’s been a failure, not necessarily because of the U.S., but if it’s been a failure to restore democracy? Does that mean that Maduro will go to pariah status, to the idea that he’d be considered illegitimate, that perhaps the U.S. would recognize someone somebody else? MR MILLER: So I would say, first of all, with respect to the premise of the question – I know you did limit it to free elections, to the democratic process, but I don’t want to lose sight of the fact that we were able to secure the release of 10 Americans, which was a very important goal of this policy and this agreement in the first place, and we’re glad to see those 10 Americans home with their families. With respect to democracy, look, I’m not ready to write the end of the story yet. We have seen them take very concerning steps, and you’ve seen the response from the United States today. There is still time for the Maduro regime to change course. There is still time for them to allow a free and fair election. We are hopeful that that’s what they’ll do, but if they don’t, we are prepared to implement our sanctions. QUESTION: Sure. Let me just ask something completely different. Do you have any reaction on ECOWAS? I’m going to Africa. Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have formally said that they’re leaving ECOWAS and it’s quote/unquote under control of foreign powers, which presumably means the U.S. or maybe the French. Do you have any reaction to that, and where that leaves U.S. diplomacy in this region? MR MILLER: So we are closely monitoring those developments. We are in close communication with ECOWAS itself and with member states. It’s a matter – not this withdrawal, but of course the general matter is a topic the Secretary discussed in his meetings in Africa last week when we traveled to four countries on the continent. We continue to support the efforts of ECOWAS and member states to bring peace, security, and prosperity to the region. We also continue to promote African-led solutions. I will go back to what we said before, which is that we believe that the collaborative efforts that regional organizations like ECOWAS play are crucial in fostering peace, security, and economic development, and we will continue to engage with them and encourage – continue to encourage all parties in the region to engage in constructive dialogue to find common ground. QUESTION: But just to put a point on it, I mean, are you calling for them to reverse this, to stay in ECOWAS, work with ECOWAS? MR MILLER: Look, we would certainly welcome them to continue to work with ECOWAS. There are a number of steps that these particular three countries, we would call on them to do. We would call all of them to return on the path to democracy, in addition to continuing to engage with ECOWAS. And we will – what we will do is consult with the members of ECOWAS and our other partner countries in the region on the best way to try to encourage these states to return to democracy, or at least return to a path towards democracy. QUESTION: Sure. I won’t take up too much more time, but just one completely separate issue as well, Pakistan. MR MILLER: I love the tour of the – you’re like – you got me, like, hopping all over the world. QUESTION: I was trying to get to each continent, but Australia probably not today. (Laughter.) MR MILLER: Can we do – can we – if you can get an Antarctica question, that will be a first. QUESTION: I would love to. That sounds like — MR MILLER: I’d have to take it back, I’m sure. QUESTION: And then New Caledonia. MR MILLER: Please don’t. (Laughter.) QUESTION: Sure. No, but in serious, on Pakistan. I — MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: I’m sure you’re not going to have much to say about this, but the — MR MILLER: I think there are people in the room who are waiting to ask about Pakistan. But go ahead. Go ahead. You — QUESTION: Well, you know what I’m going to ask. The prison sentence to Imran Khan just before the election, does the U.S. have anything to say about this? Is this in keeping with democratic values? MR MILLER: Sure. It is a legal matter ultimately for Pakistan’s courts. We have been following the case – the cases, I should say, plural – brought against the former prime minister but don’t have any comment on the sentencing. As we have stated consistently, we continue to call for the respect of democratic principles, human rights, and the rule of law in Pakistan, as we do around the world. QUESTION: So specifically on Imran Khan — MR MILLER: It’s a matter for the Pakistani courts. Yeah. Alex, go ahead. QUESTION: Can we follow up on Africa? MR MILLER: I’ll come to you next. I just called on Alex. QUESTION: Just to follow up a little bit about Iran, given the fact that there is a mounting pressure for a more significant response, the Secretary yesterday said that we will do it “at a time and place of our choosing.” The fact that nothing has happened yet, is this the — MR MILLER: That wasn’t even 24 hours ago, Alex. (Laughter.) QUESTION: Is it the part of strategy? MR MILLER: So I’m just like – that was less than 24 hours ago that the Secretary said that. QUESTION: So yeah, as my – but my obvious follow-up is — MR MILLER: So just it’s important to – it’s important to point that out. (Laughter.) QUESTION: But the obvious follow-up is: Is it a part of strategy? MR MILLER: What’s that? QUESTION: Is it a part of strategy that nothing has happened yet? MR MILLER: Is it — QUESTION: A part of strategy. As the administration is pondering over what to do, its next step, what is your response to critics that you might have wasted some time? MR MILLER: So I would say that when we say “at a time and place of our choosing,” you should focus on the word “our,” not “your.” It’s a time and place of our choosing, not yours. And as the Secretary also said, we’re not going to telegraph the response in advance, we’re not going to telegraph the nature of the response or the timing of the response, and no one should read anything into that about when, where, or how that response might take place. But as he said, it could be multi-level, it could come in stages, and it could be sustained over time. QUESTION: But can you speak to the objectives that you are trying to achieve here? Is it more than just this is completely wrong and don’t do it again, or it’s more than just sending a message? Are you going to go after troublemakers — MR MILLER: So as the President said, we are going to hold accountable those who were responsible for the death of three U.S. soldiers. QUESTION: Does the administration consider IRGC facilities, drone facilities in Iran, as a legitimate target now that they are targeting you? MR MILLER: Again, I don’t want to preview any steps that we might take. As you have heard multiple members of this administration say, we do not seek conflict with Iran, we do not want to see escalation of this conflict, we do not believe that escalation in the interests of the United States, not in the interests of Iran, it’s not in the interests of anyone in the region. But at the same time, we will take the appropriate steps to defend U.S. personnel, defend U.S. interests, and to hold accountable those who go after and injure and harm and kill U.S. personnel. QUESTION: Okay, I appreciate that. But the question is: Do you consider IRGC facilities as a legitimate target? You might not choose that as an option, but is it a legitimate target? MR MILLER: Again, I don’t have any further comment than what I just — QUESTION: Matt — MR MILLER: I promised I’d go – I’d go here next. QUESTION: The Secretary’s visit to Africa. MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: Can you shed a little bit the Secretary’s impression of Angola while he was visiting Angola? And also, was the Secretary able to accomplish the objectives they took there to Angola? MR MILLER: Yeah. So I can speak to his impressions of Angola, but I would also encourage you to look at the comments that the Secretary himself made at a press conference in Luanda with the foreign minister of Angola, where he talked about his visit to the country and the investments that we have made in Angola and the economic partnership we have with Angola. And I know the Secretary welcomed the chance to visit the continent, to visit Angola specifically. As you may know, we discussed investments in the Lobito Corridor and the railroad that’s being built, an 800-kilometer railroad that’s being built across the African continent, which we believe will significantly improve economic development in Angola and neighboring countries and will improve the economic partnership between Angola and the United States. The Secretary also was able to engage with the president of Angola about regional security issues. And the Secretary welcomed the opportunity to visit the continent, enjoyed it a great deal, and thought he was – one of the things you might have heard him say while he was there, thought it was important to be there not just to talk, but to listen. QUESTION: So – and beside the Lobito Corridor, is there any other area that U.S. will be focused in Angola? I heard something about food. MR MILLER: Sure. There were a number of things we discussed. I would refer you to the comments that we made. But he also did talk about our VACS program while we were in Angola, in which we focus on improving seeds and soil to combat climate change. I’d refer you to all of the comments he made while he was there for further information. QUESTION: But what about the other countries that the Secretary also visit? How do you summarize the visit to Africa? MR MILLER: It was an extremely productive trip and it was, I will say from our perspective, an extremely productive trip because the Secretary was able to engage in bilateral communications with each of the four countries that he visited, but also because he was able to engage with the people of Africa, didn’t just attend – was fortunate enough that we didn’t just attend government meetings but also engaged in a number of meetings with civil society and others. And he came away heartened with the cooperation that the U.S. can do with partners on the African continent. QUESTION: And one last question. Is this some kind of preparation for President Biden to visit Africa soon? MR MILLER: No, the President very much has made clear that Africa is a priority and he remains intent on traveling to Africa, but this trip was separate from any presidential travel. Nike, go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. On the Taliban, Chinese President Xi Jinping has accepted credentials from dozens of ambassadors in Beijing today, including an ambassador from Afghanistan from the Taliban government. So practical-wise, as an international practice, does the United States consider such act as an official recognition of the Taliban government? MR MILLER: So I’ve seen those reports, and I think I would let the Chinese Government speak to what this means in terms of their relationship and whether they have formally recognized the Taliban or not. I’ve seen some comments from them to the contrary. As we have said on behalf of the United States to the Taliban in public and in private, their relationship with the international community depends entirely on their actions, and we will be looking to see them take a different course of action than they have to date. QUESTION: Would the United States urge China to use its influence over the Taliban to improve the rights of the women and girls? MR MILLER: So we very much want to see the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan improved, and we would urge any country that engages with the Taliban to urge improvement on that front. Go ahead, yeah. QUESTION: Thank you so much. I have two questions. MR MILLER: Okay. QUESTION: First of all, almost 47 journalists got notices from the Pakistan Federal Investigation Agency, FIA, under the charges of like disseminating. And this is something like international journalistic bodies have concerns like this is another threat for free speech. So how U.S. will see this development? How will you respond? Basically, already the free speech is under threat as general elections up ahead. And secondly, Iranian foreign minister entered in talks with Pakistani foreign minister in Islamabad, said there is a third country that is involved in Iran and Pakistan to attack each other or something, like creating fear. So how do you respond this? MR MILLER: There is a third country? QUESTION: Yes, a third country is involved both in Iran and Pakistan doing terrorism for the both countries. MR MILLER: So I don’t have any comment on that. And with respect to the first question, I’m not familiar with the reports. Let me take it back and get you an answer. Go ahead. QUESTION: Yeah, and thank you, Matt. Yesterday, the Pentagon said that Kata’ib Hizballah in Iraq has some footprint of that attack that happened in Jordan, but today the Kata’ib Hizballah Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi, the secretary general of Kata’ib Hizballah in Iraq, they pushed a statement and they said that we announce the suspension of all our attacks on the U.S. troops in order to prevent embarrassment to the Iraqi Government, but if the United States will respond in attacking us, then we will resume our attacks. So how do you see this statement from the Kata’ib Hizballah? And then, do you hold the Iraqi Government in any way responsible for not preventing these militia groups attacking your forces in Iraq, in Syria, and in Jordan? MR MILLER: So I typically make it a practice not to respond to statements from terrorist organizations from the podium here. I will say, as we have said before, that we will hold accountable any organization that we find to be responsible for attacks on U.S. personnel in the region. As it pertains to the Government of Iraq, of course we have said that we want to see the Government of Iraq do more to hold accountable, to investigate, to arrest, to prosecute those who are responsible for attacks on U.S. forces, but we will also take steps to defend those forces ourselves, and that’s what you can expect us to do. QUESTION: Yeah. Yesterday, you announced some sanctions on the Al-Huda Bank and the owner of that bank, Hamad al-Moussawi. Hamad al-Moussawi is a member of the parliament of Iraq, and he is a part of the coalition framework which – forming the current Iraqi Government. So do you still believe that there are some companies and banks in Iraq that are funding these groups and these groups are – get funding from these people, from the parliament and from the Iraqi Government, and they are using these funds to attacking you? So how do you deal with that situation in Iraq, that the Iraqi Government knows these people very clearly? Even 10 years ago, the Iraqi parliament made a statement that this guy, he is funding the militia groups and Iranian with the U.S. dollar. MR MILLER: So I’m not going to make a comment with respect to that specific person, other than to say that we do of course expect the Iraqi Government to take action to hold accountable anyone that supports terrorism, that finances terrorism, and we’ll continue to engage with them in that regard. QUESTION: And are you taking action? MR MILLER: Continue – we will continue to engage with them on that regard. Go ahead. QUESTION: This is about Imran Khan. What would you say when you observe that all government institutions and others going after a key political figure in Pakistan before the elections and trying to keep him out of power? Don’t you think that such tactics are creating fractures in the structure of democracy in Pakistan? MR MILLER: So the prosecution of the former prime minister is a legal matter and we would defer to the Pakistani courts with respect to a legal matter, but of course we want to see the democratic process unfold in a way that allows broad participation for all parties and respects democratic principles. We don’t take a position, as you have heard us say before, about internal Pakistani matters, and we don’t take a position with respect to candidates for office in Pakistan. We want to see a free, fair, and open democratic process, and when it comes to legal matters, those are matters for the Pakistani courts to decide. QUESTION: General elections are in next eight or nine days in Pakistan. Do you think that – do you believe that it will be, like, free and fair when you’re sentencing a former prime minister? MR MILLER: We certainly want to see a free and fair election, and we will be monitoring how that proceeds over the next week to 10 days. Go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you. MR MILLER: I’ll come to you in a minute. QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: The Wall Street Journal reports India’s inclusion in a Canadian inquiry on Bangladesh on election interference, aligning with China and Russia. India’s involvement has also surfaced in Bangladesh election interference to keep Sheikh Hasina in power. The Bangladesh ruling foreign minister last week publicly asserts India’s support for their victory, similar to the 2014 and 2018 one-sided elections. Critics claim the U.S. is pushing back on democracy promotion in Bangladesh due to Indian influence. How do you respond? MR MILLER: So I don’t have a response with respect to the Canadian inquiry that you referenced. That’s a matter for Canada to speak to. I will say with respect to Bangladesh, democracy – as we have said any number of times as it pertains to Bangladesh and others – advances peace, prosperity, and security. It is at the center of the United States’ foreign policy and we continue to engage with the Bangladeshi Government to advance democratic principles, which are key to ensuring peace and prosperity for all Bangladeshis. QUESTION: The Human Rights Commission – one more, Matt, please. MR MILLER: Sure. QUESTION: The Human Rights Commission calls for the immediate release of detained political activities – activists in Bangladesh. The regime arrested 25,000 opposition members, including top opposition leaders, BNP leaders, to manipulate the January 7th sham election. What steps is the U.S. taking against the authoritarian regime for undermining democracy given the pre-elections visa restriction policy? MR MILLER: So you have heard me speak about our concerns about the parliamentary elections in Bangladesh before. We did not find them to be free and fair. We have also expressed our concerns with the arrest of thousands of political opposition members in the run-up to those elections. I will say two things. One, we urge the Bangladeshi Government to ensure a fair and transparent legal process for all of the arrested individuals. We also urge the Bangladeshi Government to allow opposition members and media professionals, civil society representatives, to participate meaningfully in the country’s democratic process and civic life, and we will continue to engage with the Bangladeshi Government to advance that point of view. QUESTION: Thank you. MR MILLER: Go ahead, and I’ll come to you next. Go ahead. QUESTION: The Iranian regime continue to deepen its tie with the Taliban in order to integrate them into the axis of resistance. Would you be worried if the Taliban fighter show up in the Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon to fight alongside Iran’s proxy against the Israel and the other U.S. allies? MR MILLER: So certainly I would say what we have said to a number of countries and organizations in the region, which is we do not want to see this conflict widened, we do not want to see it escalated, and anyone, whether it’s in a country or an organization or an individual who is thinking about using this opportunity – using the crisis in the Middle East to try and advance their own goals, that they should very much think again. Ryan, go ahead. QUESTION: Just wanted to pick up on his Pakistan question, because you said earlier that that’s a matter for the Pakistani courts. When it came to Venezuela, that’s a political matter, it seems. The Venezuelan courts, of course, approved Maduro’s banning of the party. Now, you could say that court is under Maduro’s thumb, it’s a kangaroo court, but in Pakistan, the prosecution was held in secret. Just recently, the – his attorney – Imran Khan’s attorneys were kept out of the courtroom and they took attorneys from the prosecution team and made him – and put them on the defense team. Like, the – nothing about that prosecution seems less than kangaroo. So why would Venezuela’s be a political case, but when it comes to Pakistan that’s a matter for the Pakistani courts? MR MILLER: So they are different situations, and we have not yet made that conclusion with respect to the Pakistani legal process. When you look at Venezuela, we are looking at the entire history of the Maduro regime in cracking down on democracy and, most importantly in this case, failing to carry out the commitments that they made to allow candidates to run. It’s a commitment that they made that the country has reneged on, and that’s why we were able to make the assessment in that case. QUESTION: There might still be a determination on the Pakistan question? MR MILLER: I just don’t – I don’t have anything to preview, but it’s not one that we’ve made at this time. QUESTION: Well, I can’t do this right now because my battery is about – my phone battery is about to die, but when I go back to my desk and look up in the Human Rights Reports for the last year on Pakistan, it will say that the U.S. has confidence that the Pakistan judiciary is fully independent and free of political influence? MR MILLER: I do not – I do not know what that report will say, but that’s not an assessment we’ve made with respect to this specific case, so – go ahead. And then we’ll wrap for the day. QUESTION: Thank you very much, Matt. Just following up a small question on my colleague’s with regards to Pakistan and Imran Khan conviction. So basically you are happy with President Biden’s foreign policy with regard to Pakistan since last three, four years you think the U.S. has gained more respect in the ordinary eyes of Pakistani people? Like you think Biden administration has done well, basically? MR MILLER: So I’m not going to speak to the views of the people of Pakistan. They can obviously speak for themselves, but we have engaged to promote stability in the region, to advance democracy in Pakistan, and to deepen economic ties between the United States and Pakistan, which will ultimately improve the lives of the Pakistani people. And we – that’s the policy that we will continue to pursue. QUESTION: And just one more question, and this question I’m a little bit disappointed with the kind of response you gave to my colleague about the Chinese-Taliban relations — MR MILLER: I’m glad to hear you passing judgment on my answers to questions. QUESTION: Yes. Yes. MR MILLER: That’s usual journalistic tactics. (Laughter.) QUESTION: I am a little bit offended because the U.S. has much big – well, because the U.S. had a much stronger response to that since decades, and the way you expressed it was very disappointing. With regards to girls’ education in Afghanistan, the U.S. has since the birth – since the beginning of the Taliban in the ’90s, girls’ education was one of the reason why media outlets like and me and the U.S. administration here from this podium – I mean, you took it very light, that you think that building relationship with Taliban without girls’ education is a small thing, basically? Is that what you are giving hint here? I mean — MR MILLER: I think you are taking the opposite interpretation from my remarks than what I said, which is that we very much want to see the rights of women and girls improved in Afghanistan. QUESTION: So – but that is very weak statement. MR MILLER: What is the – so let me just — QUESTION: The U.S. has stood by the — MR MILLER: Do you have a question? QUESTION: The U.S. has supported this girls’ education issue in a much stronger sense, and – I am just trying to say that — MR MILLER: And – we are – this is the last – this is the last, I think, question of the briefing. So let me just say do you have a question before we close? QUESTION: Okay. So basically what I’m saying is the U.S.’s stake has to – has become a little softer with regards to girls’ education and that is — MR MILLER: So I would — QUESTION: Taliban have ruined the whole religion of Islam by not allowing girls, so that’s – that’s — MR MILLER: I would disagree with that. And in fact, if you listen to what I said in my comments earlier about Afghanistan, I said that for the Taliban to gain international recognition, it very much depends on the steps that it takes. And one of the steps that we would expect to see them take would be to improve the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan. And with that, we’ll wrap for the day. QUESTION: Thank you. QUESTION: Can I just follow up on something? MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: The way Nike asked the question about China and how they’re receiving the Taliban – I know you mentioned the U.S. policy with the Taliban, but do you have any concerns about China actually receiving a representative of the Taliban in the – in this context? MR MILLER: So the only reason I’m not commenting on it specifically is I’ve seen also the Chinese Government put out some statement that it has not changed their recognition of the Taliban, so I want to have actual clarity on what it is the Chinese Government did before I make any formal assessment. With that, we’ll wrap for the day. Thanks, everyone. QUESTION: So – hold on a second. MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: I did manage to find it before (inaudible). MR MILLER: I said the briefing was over. You don’t get the right to declare it’s still going. (Laughter.) QUESTION: Well, I’m just going to quote from you from your own Human Rights Report: “There was a lack of government accountability, and abuses, including corruption and misconduct by security forces” and – that “often went unpunished” — MR MILLER: You better hurry before your service runs out – your battery. QUESTION: — “fostering a culture of impunity among perpetrators. Authorities seldom investigated or punished government officials for reported human rights abuses and acts of corruption.” So what you’re saying now is that this – you could see a situation in which this – the prosecution of the former prime minister is actually an improvement over what you found in the Human Rights Reports for Pakistan last year. MR MILLER: So certainly there are areas – there are areas for improvement that we would welcome in Pakistan, but that is not an assessment we have made with this specific case. QUESTION: Got it. Thank you. MR MILLER: Thanks. (The briefing was concluded at 2:12 p.m.) Tags Afghanistan Angola Bangladesh Canada China Iran Iraq Israel Jordan Office of the Spokesperson Pakistan Palestinian Territories Venezuela

U.S. Special Envoy Kennedy Travels to Ireland

01/31/2024

U.S. Special Envoy Kennedy Travels to Ireland 01/31/2024 08:37 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs Joseph Kennedy, III is on official travel to Belfast and Dublin January 30 to February 2. In Belfast, Special Envoy Kennedy is engaging with an array of business and industry leaders, Chamber of Commerce members, and young entrepreneurs. The trip will include visits to Queens University Belfast and Stranmillis University College. In Dublin, Special Envoy Kennedy will participate in a fireside chat with Ambassador Claire Cronin. His trip will focus on Northern Ireland business and investment priorities for 2024 and highlight the continued, important role U.S. investors play in preserving the gains of the Belfast / Good Friday Agreement.

U.S. Special Envoy Kennedy Travels to Ireland

01/31/2024

U.S. Special Envoy Kennedy Travels to Ireland 01/31/2024 08:37 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs Joseph Kennedy, III is on official travel to Belfast and Dublin January 30 to February 2. In Belfast, Special Envoy Kennedy is engaging with an array of business and industry leaders, Chamber of Commerce members, and young entrepreneurs. The trip will include visits to Queens University Belfast and Stranmillis University College. In Dublin, Special Envoy Kennedy will participate in a fireside chat with Ambassador Claire Cronin. His trip will focus on Northern Ireland business and investment priorities for 2024 and highlight the continued, important role U.S. investors play in preserving the gains of the Belfast / Good Friday Agreement.

Designating IRGC-QF and Hizballah Financial Facilitators

01/31/2024

Designating IRGC-QF and Hizballah Financial Facilitators 01/31/2024 10:58 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States is today designating three entities and one individual as part of a network generating funding for the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF) and Hizballah by selling Iranian commodities and receiving funds from the Syrian government. The IRGC-QF and its proxy network persist in their attempts to generate revenue from illicit commercial activity that funds terrorism and destabilizing activities in the region.  The United States remains committed to curbing these organizations’ ability to generate revenue. The Department of the Treasury action was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13224, as amended.  For more information on this designation, see Treasury’s press release.

Imposing Sanctions on Burma’s Military Regime Three Years After the Military Coup

01/31/2024

Imposing Sanctions on Burma’s Military Regime Three Years After the Military Coup 01/31/2024 10:50 AM EST HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Imposing Sanctions on Burma’s Military Regime Three Years After the Military Coup hide Imposing Sanctions on Burma’s Military Regime Three Years After the Military Coup Press Statement January 31, 2024 The United States is today designating four individuals and two entities linked to Burma’s military regime.  We are taking this action to target the regime’s sources of revenue which support military activities against civilians.  The action also targets those who provide material and support for the production of arms in Burma. Since the military coup d’etat on February 1, 2021, the military regime has continued to carry out a campaign of violence and repression against the people of Burma.  The military has conducted airstrikes that have killed hundreds of civilians.  Regime forces have burned tens of thousands of homes across the country and displaced almost 2.6 million people.  There is pervasive discrimination against members of religious and ethnic groups, leaving vulnerable groups, including Rohingya, facing horrific conditions.  Many political figures remain unjustly imprisoned by the regime, with some facing life in jail or execution.  As a result of the regime’s actions, people across the country lack access to physical security, medical care, and education. We reiterate our call for the military to change course and create space for meaningful and inclusive dialogue toward a future democratic Burma.  We also call on the international community to increase support for the broad range of political, ethnic, and religious stakeholders seeking a credible and inclusive democratic process to elect a representative government in Burma  The actions mentioned above by the U.S. Department of the Treasury were taken pursuant to Executive Order 14014 “Blocking Property With Respect to the Situation in Burma”.  For more information on today’s action, see the Department of Treasury’s press release. Tags Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Burma Human Rights and Democracy Office of the Spokesperson

Designating Entities in Sudan that Contribute to War Efforts

01/31/2024

Designating Entities in Sudan that Contribute to War Efforts 01/31/2024 11:14 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States is designating today three Sudanese entities that have helped finance and secure materiel for the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).  Zadna International Co for Development Ltd is a major component of the SAF’s commercial empire and is used by SAF to launder funds.  Al-Fakher Advanced Works Co. Ltd. is a holding company for the RSF’s gold export business, helping generate millions of dollars for the RSF’s war effort.  Al Khaleej Bank Company, Ltd has played a central role in funding RSF’s operations.  All three entities have undermined the peace, security, and stability of Sudan. Rather than adhere to their commitments and obligations to protect civilians and implement a ceasefire, the SAF and the RSF have continued to fuel the conflict, commit atrocities, and obstruct humanitarian aid deliveries.  The United States will continue to use the tools at our disposal to end this devastating war, promote accountability, and help the Sudanese people realize their demands for freedom, peace, and justice. The Department of the Treasury is taking these actions pursuant to Executive Order 14098, which imposes sanctions on certain persons destabilizing Sudan and undermining the goal of a democratic transition.  For more information on these designations, see Treasury’s press release.

Assistant Secretary of State Satterfield Travels to Los Angeles

01/31/2024

Assistant Secretary of State Satterfield Travels to Los Angeles 01/31/2024 11:38 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson From January 31 – February 5, 2024, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) Lee Satterfield will travel to Los Angeles to build on Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent launch of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative and expand it by engaging with leaders in the music industry, as well as attend the 66th Annual GRAMMY Awards presented by The Recording Academy®. In September 2023, Secretary Blinken launched the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, and outlined three initial efforts by the United States to elevate music as a diplomatic tool, including a new public-private partnership with The Recording Academy® and the creation of the American Music Mentorship Program; expanded efforts to use music to teach English globally; and the Fulbright-Kennedy Center Visiting Scholar Award in Arts and Science. In addition, music icon Quincy Jones was awarded the first-ever Peace through Music Award. Click here to learn more. The Global Music Diplomacy Initiative and the American Music Mentorship Program, a Partnership between the U.S. Department of State and The Recording Academy, builds on the bipartisan PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act, which President Biden signed into law and called on the Department to expand public-private partnerships in support of music diplomacy. In addition, American Music Abroad, Arts Envoy, Center Stage, Next Level, and OneBeat are all key components of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative. For more information, contact ECA-Press@state.gov.

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Ukraine

01/31/2024

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Ukraine 01/31/2024 12:58 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland traveled to Kyiv, Ukraine on January 31. While there, she met with senior Ukrainian government officials to reiterate the United States’ enduring support for Ukraine’s democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in the face of Putin’s brutal war. The Acting Deputy Secretary also visited a USAID-funded wounded veteran rehabilitation center where she saw and heard first-hand accounts of both the tragic toll of nearly two-years of fighting, and the heroic bravery of the Ukrainian people who are determined to win the fight for their future.

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Ukraine

01/31/2024

Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland’s Travel to Ukraine 01/31/2024 12:58 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland traveled to Kyiv, Ukraine on January 31. While there, she met with senior Ukrainian government officials to reiterate the United States’ enduring support for Ukraine’s democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in the face of Putin’s brutal war. The Acting Deputy Secretary also visited a USAID-funded wounded veteran rehabilitation center where she saw and heard first-hand accounts of both the tragic toll of nearly two-years of fighting, and the heroic bravery of the Ukrainian people who are determined to win the fight for their future.

Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Rao Gupta Travels to Colombia

01/31/2024

Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Rao Gupta Travels to Colombia   01/31/2024 02:34 PM EST HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Rao Gupta Travels to Colombia   hide Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Rao Gupta Travels to Colombia   Media Note January 31, 2024 U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Dr. Geeta Rao Gupta will travel to Bogotá, Colombia from January 31-February 3.  The Ambassador will meet with government officials, civil society leaders, international partners, and other gender equality champions. To further advance the United States’ and Colombia’s shared commitment to promoting gender equality and the global Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, Ambassador Rao Gupta and Vice Foreign Minister of Colombia Elizabeth Taylor will sign a Memorandum of Understanding on February 1 to support the launch of Colombia’s Women, Peace and Security Center of Excellence.  This Center will coordinate existing WPS efforts and support WPS National Action Plan (NAP) development and implementation through training, technical learning exchanges, and sharing of knowledge and expertise.  The WPS Center will create opportunities for further partnership with Colombia and regional counterparts, in support of the 2023 U.S. Strategy and NAP on Women, Peace and Security. On February 2, Ambassador Rao Gupta will meet with the Ministry of Equality and Equity to discuss efforts to promote the rights and empowerment of women and girls.  In addition, the Ambassador will hear from civil society leaders on opportunities to strengthen women’s empowerment in Colombia. For media inquiries, please contact stategwi@state.gov. Tags Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs Colombia Global Women's Issues Office of Global Women’s Issues Office of the Spokesperson Women's Issues

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza Sigrid Kaag Before Their Meeting

01/31/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza Sigrid Kaag Before Their Meeting 01/31/2024 03:34 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  I’m very pleased to have Sigrid Kaag here at the State Department to talk about her absolutely vital mandate conferred by the United Nations Security Council to help maximize the humanitarian assistance that’s getting in to people in need in Gaza, and also to think about and plan for the longer-term reconstruction of Gaza when the conflict ends.  I’ve had the opportunity in years past to work very closely with Sigrid, including on the disposition of the chemical weapons from Syria back in 2015 and 2016, but her mission now could not be more vital, and we strongly and fully support it. We’ll be working very closely with Sigrid, with Israel, with Egypt, with other concerned parties in the first instance to maximize the assistance that’s getting in, but not only getting in to Gaza, getting to people who need it within Gaza, including in the north.  And in that, the United Nations remains an essential and vital partner. At the same time, we have to work through the terrible allegations that have been raised with regard to some UNRWA personnel.  That’s absolutely essential and we’ll be looking to see that the necessary work is done to deal with that and address that situation.  But here today we have an opportunity to compare notes on the practical steps that need to be taken, again, to make sure that assistance is getting to those who need it. MS KAAG:  Thank you very much, Tony, and indeed, I’m extremely honored and have the privilege to meet you again, Mr. Secretary, Tony.  We’ve been entrusted with a strong mandate by the Security Council, very much also supported by the United States, to form a common objective – that is, getting humanitarian aid, assistance in to the innocent civilians of Gaza.  They need it, we need to help them sustain, we need to give them prospects.  And it’s quite a tough task, but with that, of course, we need the support not only of the Security Council but also member-states of the region, and I’ve managed to travel, I’ve had good discussions and collaboration with the Jordanian Government, the Egyptian Government, and also the Israeli Government. It’s not an easy task, but it’s something where we cannot fail. And some of the obstacles or the challenges are practical – the volume, quality of aid; sustainability of aid; getting it to the right people inside Gaza is what we stand for and what we need to deliver on.  Now, there are a number of issues we also need to keep talking about, and that is de-confliction – safe conditions to deliver aid not only for the humanitarian workers but also for those who receive it.  We also need to talk about aid diversion, and any potential risk that aid gets into the wrong hand needs to be prevented, and if it happens, we need to act very swiftly in a very transparent and credible manner. There are a number of options that we want to discuss today.  I’ve briefed the council yesterday and I feel very heartened by their strong support.  It’s not an easy road, but as the Secretary said, common objective is to assist people in need through humanitarian assistance and, hopefully not so long before us, through commercial goods, because we need those goods for the early recovery as well as the reconstruction of Gaza at the right time. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  Thanks, everyone.

Ambassador Fick’s Travel to Singapore

01/31/2024

Ambassador Fick’s Travel to Singapore 01/31/2024 03:49 PM EST HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Ambassador Fick’s Travel to Singapore hide Ambassador Fick’s Travel to Singapore Media Note January 31, 2024 From February 1 – 2, 2024, Ambassador at Large for Cyberspace and Digital Policy Nathaniel C. Fick will lead the U.S. delegation at the 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meetings (ADGMIN) in Singapore.  He will be joined by U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN Yohannes Abraham and Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Information and Communications Policy Steve Lang, who will serve as head of the U.S. delegation and representative to the 4th ASEAN Digital Senior Officials’ (ADGSOM) Meetings from January 30 – 31. Ambassador Fick and Deputy Assistant Secretary Lang will discuss our wide-ranging cooperation under the U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including on issues such as digital economy, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity – and reaffirm the United States’ commitment to ASEAN and ASEAN centrality.  They will meet with representatives from ASEAN member states and Dialogue Partners to discuss U.S.-ASEAN digital cooperation on trusted information and communications technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital regulation.  Deputy Assistant Secretary Lang will also meet with industry leaders and academia to reinforce our commitment to the region and multi-stakeholder approach to digital and cyber issues. The U.S. delegation will emphasize the important role that the digital economy plays in ensuring a secure and prosperous ASEAN region that benefits our combined one billion people. For media inquiries, please write to CDP-Press@state.gov. For updates on cyberspace and digital policy, follow the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy on X/Twitter (@StateCDP) and LinkedIn (Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy). Tags Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Office of the Spokesperson Official International Travel Singapore

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza Sigrid Kaag Before Their Meeting

01/31/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken And UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza Sigrid Kaag Before Their Meeting 01/31/2024 03:34 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  I’m very pleased to have Sigrid Kaag here at the State Department to talk about her absolutely vital mandate conferred by the United Nations Security Council to help maximize the humanitarian assistance that’s getting in to people in need in Gaza, and also to think about and plan for the longer-term reconstruction of Gaza when the conflict ends.  I’ve had the opportunity in years past to work very closely with Sigrid, including on the disposition of the chemical weapons from Syria back in 2015 and 2016, but her mission now could not be more vital, and we strongly and fully support it. We’ll be working very closely with Sigrid, with Israel, with Egypt, with other concerned parties in the first instance to maximize the assistance that’s getting in, but not only getting in to Gaza, getting to people who need it within Gaza, including in the north.  And in that, the United Nations remains an essential and vital partner. At the same time, we have to work through the terrible allegations that have been raised with regard to some UNRWA personnel.  That’s absolutely essential and we’ll be looking to see that the necessary work is done to deal with that and address that situation.  But here today we have an opportunity to compare notes on the practical steps that need to be taken, again, to make sure that assistance is getting to those who need it. MS KAAG:  Thank you very much, Tony, and indeed, I’m extremely honored and have the privilege to meet you again, Mr. Secretary, Tony.  We’ve been entrusted with a strong mandate by the Security Council, very much also supported by the United States, to form a common objective – that is, getting humanitarian aid, assistance in to the innocent civilians of Gaza.  They need it, we need to help them sustain, we need to give them prospects.  And it’s quite a tough task, but with that, of course, we need the support not only of the Security Council but also member-states of the region, and I’ve managed to travel, I’ve had good discussions and collaboration with the Jordanian Government, the Egyptian Government, and also the Israeli Government. It’s not an easy task, but it’s something where we cannot fail. And some of the obstacles or the challenges are practical – the volume, quality of aid; sustainability of aid; getting it to the right people inside Gaza is what we stand for and what we need to deliver on.  Now, there are a number of issues we also need to keep talking about, and that is de-confliction – safe conditions to deliver aid not only for the humanitarian workers but also for those who receive it.  We also need to talk about aid diversion, and any potential risk that aid gets into the wrong hand needs to be prevented, and if it happens, we need to act very swiftly in a very transparent and credible manner. There are a number of options that we want to discuss today.  I’ve briefed the council yesterday and I feel very heartened by their strong support.  It’s not an easy road, but as the Secretary said, common objective is to assist people in need through humanitarian assistance and, hopefully not so long before us, through commercial goods, because we need those goods for the early recovery as well as the reconstruction of Gaza at the right time. SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  Thanks, everyone.

Joint Statement on U.S.-Brazil 200 years of Diplomatic Relations

01/31/2024

Joint Statement on U.S.-Brazil 200 years of Diplomatic Relations 01/31/2024 04:35 PM EST HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Joint Statement on U.S.-Brazil 200 years of Diplomatic Relations hide Joint Statement on U.S.-Brazil 200 years of Diplomatic Relations Media Note January 31, 2024 The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Federative Republic of Brazil on the occasion of 200 years of diplomatic relations. Begin Text The U.S. Department of State and Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs are pleased to announce the beginning of a year of celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries.  The celebrations will highlight the strong political, economic, and cultural ties between the United States and Brazil, two of the world’s most diverse and thriving democracies, as emphasized during the meetings of Presidents Lula and Biden in Washington on February 10, 2023, and in New York on September 20, 2023.   Throughout 2024, the United States and Brazil will host a series of joint initiatives, seminars, exchange programs, and cultural events to highlight our mutual commitment to the rich diversity of our peoples, the strength of our respective democracies, the protection of human rights, and the preservation of the environment.  On May 26, 1824, the two countries established diplomatic relations with the U.S. recognition of Brazil’s independence.  In the 21st century, our bilateral partnership continues to deliver for both peoples, as evidenced by the dynamism of economic and trade relations, technological exchange, important cooperation on energy and the environment, prioritization of social issues, and renewal of important bilateral dialogue mechanisms throughout 2023.  The announcement of the Brazil-U.S. Partnership for Workers’ Rights by Presidents Lula and Biden also highlights our robust bilateral relationship.  On the global level, the United States and Brazil reaffirm their commitment to work together to build a more prosperous and democratic international order, in which peace and inclusive and sustainable development prevail.  End Text Tags Brazil Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Human Rights and Democracy Office of the Spokesperson

Department Press Briefing – January 31, 2024

01/31/2024

Department Press Briefing – January 31, 2024 01/31/2024 06:00 PM EST HomeDepartment Press Briefing – January 31, 2024 hide Department Press Briefing – January 31, 2024 January 31, 2024 12:39 p.m. EST MR MILLER: Good afternoon, everyone. Let me start with some opening comments. As you all have repeatedly heard Secretary Blinken say, it has been one of his top priorities to disrupt the global flow of synthetic drugs and their precursor chemicals, which fuel a fentanyl crisis, into the United States. For years, bilateral cooperation between the United States and the People’s Republic of China on counternarcotics had been suspended, which hindered our ability to make progress on addressing this crisis that touches the lives of so many Americans. That began to change when the Secretary traveled to Beijing last June and raised the importance of cooperation to address the fentanyl crisis. Those discussions laid the groundwork for the meeting between President Biden and President Xi Jinping at Woodside, California in November where the leaders announced the resumption of bilateral cooperation on counternarcotics. This week, the United States Government began to put that agreement into practice. Over the past two days, Assistant Secretary for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Todd Robinson joined an interagency delegation to Beijing marking the initiation of a bilateral Counternarcotics Working Group with the PRC. The launch of this working group marks an important step to advance concrete law enforcement action, and to coordinate targeted measures to stop the illicit flow of precursor chemicals that are fueling the fentanyl crisis. At this working group, the United States emphasized the importance of multilateral and international cooperation on chemical precursor scheduling, information sharing, and other measures. The PRC has already started to take steps to dramatically curtail the supply of fentanyl precursors, including taking regulatory and law enforcement action against dozens of PRC‑based synthetic drug and chemical precursor suppliers, issuing a notice to industry, and resuming the submission of chemical incidents to the International Narcotics Control Board’s global information-sharing database. Those were important initial steps, and through this working group, we will continue to press for concrete action. Addressing the fentanyl crisis in the United States and the surge of synthetic drugs globally is a transnational challenge that demands a strong and coordinated global response. We will continue to engage in the robust diplomacy required to make that happen. With that, Mr. Lee. QUESTION: Thank you. What can you tell us about the Secretary’s imminent travel plans? MR MILLER: I don’t have any announcements to make about upcoming travel. Obviously, he has made four trips to the Middle East since October 7th, and you can certainly expect him to make future visits, but I don’t have any announcements to make today. QUESTION: Okay. And then just secondly but related to the Middle East, have you gotten any clarity from your people about this hospital raid in Jenin yesterday or on – or from the Israelis about the destruction of the university in Gaza? MR MILLER: On the first, we have not. It’s – obviously, we’ve raised these issues regularly with our Israeli counterparts and seek information. I don’t have a report back on the incident in the West Bank. With respect to – with respect to the university, I think you’re referring to the university in Gaza that we talked about a couple weeks ago. So we have raised that — QUESTION: No, it was last week. MR MILLER: I wasn’t here last week, so it couldn’t have been with me last week. QUESTION: All right. MR MILLER: I think it was two – I think it was — QUESTION: Maybe it was ten days ago. Whatever. Whenever — MR MILLER: I think it was two – yeah, ten days, two weeks, whatever it was. So — QUESTION: But – yeah, but it’s been – it’s been a while. MR MILLER: Yeah. So — QUESTION: And you’ve got nothing back? MR MILLER: So I didn’t say that. I will say — QUESTION: Okay. MR MILLER: I will say that (laughter) — QUESTION: All right. MR MILLER: I appreciate it. It is an issue that we raised with the Israeli Government. We’ve raised with them the issue of both the demolition of sites, which they have reported to us they have conducted – they have undertaken only when they were sites from which terrorist activities were launched or plotted or being planned; and we have raised with them the issue of the establishment of a buffer zone, because you’ve seen the reports that these demolitions might have been to advance a buffer zone. They have – I will say we have made clear to them the same thing that we have said publicly, which is we are opposed to any reduction in the size of the territory of Gaza. And what they have said to us is that they do not intend to occupy Gaza; they do not intend to leave forces there. And we’re going to continue to engage with them on this question. QUESTION: Well, yeah, but that doesn’t answer my question, which is specifically about the demolition of the university. I mean, you say that they’re only going to – they only target facilities or whatever when they are — MR MILLER: That is what – that is what they — QUESTION: — terrorist – terrorist — MR MILLER: That is what they have reported back to us, correct. QUESTION: Does that mean that 75 percent of Gaza was — MR MILLER: So I don’t want to mix — QUESTION: — of buildings in Gaza were, like, being used to plan or – was that your understanding? MR MILLER: So I don’t want to – I was speaking specifically with respect to this demolition. There are obviously other buildings that have been hit in air strikes, and some of those have been — QUESTION: Well, they’re not just in air strikes, but in — MR MILLER: No, I know, but let me just finish. QUESTION: — but in controlled demolitions. MR MILLER: Some of them have been instances where they are going after legitimate military targets. Some of them are instances where they make mistakes, right, where there is targeting that either they have bad information or where the – you referred to — QUESTION: I’m sorry, a — MR MILLER: You referred to seven — QUESTION: — a controlled demolition is not a mistake. MR MILLER: Matt, you referred to — QUESTION: It’s an intentional act. MR MILLER: You referred to 75 percent of buildings. QUESTION: Well, I don’t know how much — MR MILLER: So that’s why I’m – that’s why – that — QUESTION: Okay. Because — MR MILLER: You only – first of all that — QUESTION: — understandable that there’s going to be damage — MR MILLER: Matt — QUESTION: — in any kind of an operation like this. But these are – these – this – the university and others that the IDF has put video out of — MR MILLER: Can I just — QUESTION: — are not – they are intentional — MR MILLER: Right. QUESTION: Sorry. So — MR MILLER: And my – and let me — QUESTION: And all of those so far — MR MILLER: Just give me – give me — QUESTION: Hold on. MR MILLER: Well, but — QUESTION: Just let me finish the question. MR MILLER: Well, but – all right. You let — QUESTION: Is it all of those that they have told — MR MILLER: We’ll have a deal to let each other finish. QUESTION: They have told you that all of those that you’ve asked questions about, all of those buildings, those facilities, were being used or had been used to either plot or conduct terrorist operations? MR MILLER: Yes. That is what I have said. QUESTION: Yes. And you accept that? You – which is fine if you do, but — MR MILLER: That is what they – that is what they have told us. We don’t have the ability to independently verify all of these issues. But let me just – let me just – I want to follow up on what I was saying a minute ago. The reason I started to talk about air strikes is you referred to 75 percent of buildings in Gaza being destroyed, which — QUESTION: I don’t know if it’s 75 percent. MR MILLER: — which – let me – I – no, no, no — QUESTION: I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have used that word because (inaudible). MR MILLER: Let me finish. I know it’s not – it’s not 75 percent; whatever the number is. But the great majority of them would not have been included in this controlled demolition activity; they would have been hit through air strikes. QUESTION: Fair enough. MR MILLER: Which is why I started to explain a different universe of possibilities. So. QUESTION: Thanks. MR MILLER: Yeah. Go ahead. QUESTION: A new report out a moment ago from Axios that Secretary Blinken has ordered staff to prepare policy plans for a Palestinian state after the war in Gaza, and that this signals a policy shift in the administration – do you have a comment on that? MR MILLER: So there has been no policy shift in the administration. We have made quite clear publicly that we support the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. That has been the policy of the United States for some time. It has been the policy of this administration. You’ve seen the Secretary speak about it publicly. I’m not going to comment on the internal work that we do to advance that objective, but I will say that there are any number of ways that you could go about accomplishing that. There are any number of sequencing of events that you could carry out to accomplish that objective. And we look at a wide range of options, and we discuss those with partners in the region, as well as other partners inside the United States Government, but there has been no policy change. QUESTION: But presumably I guess policy planning would have contingency plans in the works that would include a Palestinian state. I mean, is there something new? Was there a new – can you tell us if the Secretary issued, like, a new directive? MR MILLER: So what I will say is yes, we support the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, and we do a lot of work inside the government to think about how to bring that about. And you see us talk about that work publicly when we’re in the region, talk about it sometimes here. And as part of that work, obviously we look at any number of options. That’s part of the normal planning process. The vast majority of options never usually get implemented, because we take things – we put things on the drawing board and figure out what will work, what will be effective, and how best to sequence it. So I won’t get into that underlying policy planning process that we go about. But yes, we are actively pursuing the establishment of an independent Palestinian state – with real security guarantees for Israel, because we do believe that is the best way to bring about lasting peace and security for Israel, for Palestinians, and for the region. QUESTION: Sorry, can I – can I — MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: Just to put a little context on that – on this, hasn’t the State Department been looking at what it would take to create a Palestinian state since the Clinton administration? MR MILLER: At — QUESTION: Maybe with the exception of the four years of the Trump administration? MR MILLER: I would say at least that long, yes. Correct. (Laughter.) QUESTION: Okay. MR MILLER: My own – my history only goes back nine months, but yes, it has been the longstanding position of the United States. QUESTION: Well, let’s go back – let’s go back 20 — MR MILLER: Right. QUESTION: — 20 or so years. Hasn’t this always been — MR MILLER: I feel like you’re asking me leading questions, Matt, but yes, the answer – the answer is yes. I will – the witness will be appropriately led. QUESTION: Okay. So if this report were to be true, it is – it’s basically just a continuation of what has been going on, with the exception of maybe the four years when Trump was president? MR MILLER: So without confirming a specific report, I will say that yes, we do have ongoing policy planning processes about how best to advance the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. QUESTION: And is it not correct that all of the diplomatic efforts that are going into, including a potential Secretary return to the Middle East, are heavily focused on day-after and long-term stability and security for the region, which you believe would include a Palestinian state? MR MILLER: Among other things — QUESTION: I’m just not sure — MR MILLER: — very much so. QUESTION: Okay. Thank you. MR MILLER: Yeah, very much so. QUESTION: Question about the UN. So UNRWA and the UN have kind of been giving conflicting guidance as to when they are going to quote/unquote “run out of funding” for Palestinians in Gaza. You got into this issue a little bit yesterday when you talked about the U.S. funding. Does State have any clarity on how long it might be until UNRWA does actually run out of funding? MR MILLER: So we’ve seen what they have said publicly, and obviously we engaged with them privately as well. I will let them speak to questions of both – of their funding and when it will expire, because it’s not just obviously a U.S. Government issue. We are not the only funder of UNRWA; there are other countries that do as well. So I will let them speak to that. We don’t have any independent information on that question. QUESTION: But as the top donor, don’t you have a sense of when they’re using the funds from the U.S. and how and the timeline? MR MILLER: We – of course we do, but as we are not – because we are not the only donor, we don’t know necessarily when other countries are making their contributions, whether there are others that are pending. In the same way I talked about yesterday how we had upcoming payments that were pending, that will be true for other countries as well. We don’t have – it’s not an internal budget schedule for UNRWA that we keep at the United States. It’s a question that they keep at UNRWA and the United Nations, so they’re best to speak to that question. QUESTION: Do you have any sense that as the secretary has now said, the secretary-general has now said that this could be – the U.S.’s pause on funding could be catastrophic for Gazans? MR MILLER: So what I would say to that is, first of all, to reiterate – as you’ve heard me say, as you’ve heard the Secretary say, and others inside the administration say – the work that UNRWA does is critical. It is critical that – it is critical work to deliver food, and water, and medicine, and other humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people. That said, the responses were – or, I’m sorry, the allegations last week were incredibly troubling, and so it is exactly because the work is so important and the work should not be jeopardized that UNRWA needs to conduct – the United Nations needs to conduct a full investigation, respond as appropriate, and put into place measures to prevent such incidents from ever occurring again. The two – I don’t actually – we get this question – I don’t find the two in tension with each other. It is because the work is so important that we cannot allow it to be threatened, right, that UNRWA has to take this seriously. There has to be a real investigation. There has to be full accountability. And there have to be appropriate measures put in place to happen again. I think the two go hand in hand. QUESTION: Thanks. QUESTION: But just to follow up on that, Israel is saying that UNRWA is fundamentally compromised. So you still stand by UNRWA in that – in that context? MR MILLER: So we believe it’s important that there be a full investigation and there be accountability and there be measures put in place, as I said, to prevent this from happening again. But at the same time, we think UNRWA’s work is critical, and we believe that there is no other partner on the ground right now who can replace UNRWA and can deliver the humanitarian assistance. And I will say that in our conversations with the Israeli Government, they have acknowledged to us at very senior levels that the work that UNRWA plays is important. Now look, they have a longstanding dispute with UNRWA that goes back to well before October 7th, as I know you’re aware of, Leon. And I’m sure that they will continue to have disputes with UNRWA that extend far beyond the end of this conflict. But I can tell you that in our conversations, they recognize the critical role that UNRWA plays and that, importantly, there is no other humanitarian relief organization that can play that role in the short term. QUESTION: You said that – sorry – the Secretary’s going to meet with the UN’s Sigrid Kaag today. And you mentioned yesterday that there would hopefully be some work to lay the ground for this UN assessment mission in northern Gaza. Is there any update you can give on what’s happened? MR MILLER: I don’t have an update of what happened today. I know that it’s been planned for – the initial assessment has been planned for the next couple days. I actually just don’t – I don’t know what happened on the ground today. There’s always kind of questions about people being able to move about as they want to in Gaza given ongoing fighting. With respect to the Secretary’s meeting today, what he’ll be emphasizing is that she is an individual who he has worked with in the past, who he has great confidence in; that he welcomes her appointment to this role – as you may know, he talked with her a couple weeks ago. Last time she was here in D.C., he was unfortunately travelling in the region and so couldn’t meet with her, so looks forward to doing it today to discuss how we can continue to coordinate the humanitarian efforts that are so vital on the ground. QUESTION: And in terms of the – the sort of assessment mission was something that the Secretary came back with several weeks ago from the Middle East now. Is it – what is it that’s been holding up getting that assessment mission in there? MR MILLER: It’s quite clear it was ready to go and there was a resurgence of fighting in the north. After Israel pulled a number of units out, there were Hamas fighters that regrouped and started launching rockets and started launching attacks against Israeli forces. So when that fighting – with that resurgence of fighting, it just made it too difficult and too – well, too dangerous for a UN mission to actually be carried out. So what we have been trying to do is find a way for them to safely conduct this mission. We’ve been in contact or in conversation with the United Nations and with the Government of Israel with – about how they can best do that. And I should add we want to see it launched as soon as possible, and I think it would have been launched in the last few weeks if not for this resurgence of fighting. Shannon. QUESTION: Thank you. The Iranian-linked militia that the Pentagon says is likely responsible for the attack on Tower 22 over the weekend has announced that it’s going to temporarily suspend attacks on U.S. forces, really implying that Iran has pressured the group to do so. The Pentagon basically responded that it’s too little too late. But from the State Department’s perspective, is this a positive sign that Iran might be listening? MR MILLER: So I will echo something I heard my colleagues at the Pentagon also say with respect to KH, which is that we will judge this group as we do all of these Iranian proxy groups, not by what they say but by what they do. And this is a group that we have seen launch attacks on U.S. forces in the region, U.S. interests in the region. We have made clear for some time that those attacks need to stop. They did not stop and so, as you heard the President say, we will be holding organizations accountable. This is not to preview any specific actions that we will take but that we will be taking steps to hold accountable those who are responsible for the deaths of U.S. soldiers. QUESTION: But on that pending response, the President said he’s already decided how to respond. Is there any fear from an escalatory standpoint in this building that something that’s sustained, multifaceted, hitting multiple targets, could just contribute to the tit for tat we’ve seen? MR MILLER: So I will say that the United States response will not be escalatory. Our actions to date to defend U.S. troops have not been escalatory. We have made clear from the outset of this conflict that we don’t believe it’s in anyone’s interest to see the conflict escalate. It’s not in the United States’ interest. We don’t believe it’s in the interests of any country in the region, and that includes Iran. At the same time, we will defend our personnel and we will defend our interests. And we made that clear for the last – for a number of months, and you’ve seen us respond and take action, take military action at times, to respond to attacks on U.S. troops and to respond to attacks on commercial shipping, and we will continue to hold accountable those who attack our forces. But we will do so in a way that is appropriate while at the same time making clear we do not want to see this conflict escalate in any way, shape, or form. Janne. QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. Two questions and North Korea and China and Russia. Last week as North Korea launched cruise missiles, Chinese foreign ministry officers and North Koreans’ foreign ministry officers met in Pyongyang. China and North Korea pledged to strengthen strategic dialogue, all levels. As you know, China continues to protect North Korea in the UN Security Council resolution with its veto power. Do you think China is using North Korea strategically in competition with the United States? MR MILLER: So I will just say, in answer to that, that obviously we have had great concern about the DPRK’s provocative, destabilizing actions, and one of the things that we have pressed China to do in our conversations with them is to use their relationship with DPRK to engage in diplomacy and try to bring an end to those actions. QUESTION: Do – also, regarding money laundering in North Korea, what measures is being taken by United States against Russia and China to block funding for North Korea’s nuclear and missile development? MR MILLER: So we have imposed a number of sanctions with respect to North Korea’s nuclear program, but I don’t have anything to preview today – anything further to preview. I know with respect to financing of that program I don’t have anything further to preview today. QUESTION: But the U.S. and China, they talking about cyber hacking agreement. MR MILLER: I just don’t have anything further to offer on it. QUESTION: Thank you. MR MILLER: Yeah, thank you. Alex. QUESTION: Thanks, Matt. A couple of separate topics. Let me start with Ukraine. Can you tell us anything about Toria Nuland’s trip to Ukraine beyond the readout you just put out – about the timing of it and any particular message she wants to convey? MR MILLER: So with respect to the timing of it, I would say only that she has traveled to Ukraine previously. Obviously, the Secretary traveled to Ukraine last fall and she traveled with him at that time, but has conducted her own travel, her own visits to Ukraine as part of a regular tempo of engagement you have seen between the United States and Ukraine. She was there today to meet with senior Ukrainian officials regarding recent battlefield developments and the importance of continued global assistance to support Ukraine. She was also there to highlight ongoing anti-corruption reform efforts to bolster Ukraine’s economic recovery and continue its trajectory towards Euro-Atlantic integration. And I will say that she, while she was there, once again strongly reiterated the United States’ ongoing support for Ukraine in its war against Russian aggression. QUESTION: Thank you. While in Ankara early this week, she was quoted as saying Türkiye will be welcomed back into F-35 program if the “S-400 issue,” quote/unquote, is resolved. How do you guys see that resolution? Türkiye already has purchased that and got punished for that. Do you expect them to return it back to Russia, perhaps send it to Ukraine, or what is the resolution that you guys are looking for? MR MILLER: So I don’t think I – there’s anything I want to add to that other than to say that we just got finished with a long, drawn-out process over the F-16s that we are providing to Türkiye. I don’t think I’m ready to jump into the next iteration of warplanes at this time when we’ve just notified and not yet even delivered the F-16s. QUESTION: Thank you. One more inquiry, if I may. There are reports that the administration opposes Ukraine’s membership prospects in NATO despite the fact that most of the members are in favor. Why? MR MILLER: I – those reports are incorrect. You’ve heard the President himself as well as the Secretary say it a number of times, that Ukraine will be a member of NATO. QUESTION: Can I move to South Caucasus, please? I have two more. QUESTION: One more on Ukraine? MR MILLER: Yeah, go ahead. QUESTION: Since it’s just (inaudible). QUESTION: Talk to you later, yes. MR MILLER: I cannot promise I’ll come back to you later, Alex. We have a full room and no one gets seven questions. But go ahead. QUESTION: Just wondering on Ukraine if you have any reaction to the UN’s top court today basically throwing out the case Ukraine brought against Russia. Of course, this was before the invasion, but still, throwing out just about the whole case. MR MILLER: Yeah, I only will say that we’ve seen the ruling. It’s apparently 117 pages long and quite complex, so we’re reviewing it but don’t have a reaction yet. QUESTION: A very quick question, if I may. MR MILLER: Quick, yeah. QUESTION: On Azerbaijan, does the administration have any policy, any approach, any view on the next week’s snap elections? MR MILLER: I don’t have anything to offer on it. Go ahead. QUESTION: Thanks for the question. And on Georgia, if I may, on policy on — MR MILLER: Let me – let me — QUESTION: Just back on Ukraine. MR MILLER: Yeah, yeah. QUESTION: If it had gone the other way around, I’m assuming you would have a reaction — MR MILLER: My only understanding is that it is a, like I said, 117-page ruling that covers a number of different issues. QUESTION: There is a summary. MR MILLER: And I know our team is reviewing it now. QUESTION: Yeah. MR MILLER: And we will obviously have a response to it. It’s just that we didn’t have it ready by the – we hadn’t fully digested it and had anything by the time I came out here half an hour ago. So let me go — QUESTION: Thank you. Thank you, Matt. After the Iranian-backed groups’ attacks on your forces in Jordan, new sanctions on Iraqi bank, and today you sanctioned three entities in Türkiye and Lebanon. Is that related to – is that a part of the response to the Iranian IRGC groups for what they did that – helping these groups and also providing the weapons for these groups attacking you? Or is this a separate — MR MILLER: These were part of our ongoing efforts to hold accountable entities and individuals who generate funds for the IRGC and Hizballah to finance their destabilizing activities. QUESTION: And today the Iranian IRGC commander said that we are heard from Americans that they are threatening us to attacking us, but we leave no response – we leave no attacks unresponsed. Do you think that this will affect the calculation of your administration when you’re thinking to responding the attacks that happened in Jordan? MR MILLER: I just don’t think I can get into that without talking about what our response will be. I will say we are obviously quite aware of the position of every entity in every country in the region, and what the President, what the national security team do is look at all these factors in coming up with our response. But we have made quite clear that we will hold accountable those who are responsible for the attacks on U.S. personnel. QUESTION: Thank you. MR MILLER: Guita, go ahead. QUESTION: Matt, I want to follow up with Shannon’s questions about the retaliation that the U.S. says it’s going to take against – you quoted your Pentagon counterpart yesterday. That was when the KH in Iraq had announced that it was going to suspend their military activities. Now today, Syrian Observatory says that the IRGC has ordered its proxies in Syria to also stop attacking U.S. interests. Could this in any way impact at least the scale and scope of the U.S. response to these groups? MR MILLER: So again, I don’t want to comment on what that response will look like, and it’s hard to answer the question without commenting on that. But I will say that with respect to all of these groups, we will judge them by their actions, not by what they say. And what we have seen a number of these proxy groups is take actions against United States personnel, against United States interests, and as we have made clear, we will hold them accountable for those actions. QUESTION: Have there been any communication with Iran, whether directly or indirectly, since the attack on Tower 22? MR MILLER: I don’t have any communications, either direct or indirect, to read out. As we’ve said in the past, we have ways to make our interests known to Iran when it’s in our interest to do so. But I don’t think our position is lost on Iran. I think they know quite clearly that we, number one, don’t want escalation in the region. We, number two, want the attacks on our personnel to stop and our interests to stop. And, number three, we’ll hold accountable those groups that launched the attacks, those responsible for the attacks at a time and place of our choosing. QUESTION: In an answer to Shannon, you also said that the U.S. response is – will not be escalatory. How is that? MR MILLER: Because the U.S. response will be to hold accountable those who launched attacks on our troops. It is a – the response will be a justified response to attacks on our troops that caused the death of three American soldiers and the injury of dozens more. It is – and we will do so in a way – I would also say we will also make clear to everyone in the region that we don’t seek conflict with Iran, we don’t want conflict with Iran, we don’t seek conflict with any party in the region and we don’t think conflict is in anyone’s interest. But it is incumbent upon the United States to protect our military, and we will do that. QUESTION: One more question. All right, these groups have said they’re going to stop their actions. But on the other side, another Iranian proxy group, the Houthis, have said that they’re going to continue standing – or facing the U.S. and the UK. They’re going to continue with their actions and everything. Seems like this is their – what the U.S. is doing is trying to stop them is not really making a difference or — MR MILLER: We have always – I will say with respect to the Houthis, we have always made clear that this would be a process that would take place over time. You are not going to eliminate someone’s military capabilities overnight, but if they continued these attacks, we would take the appropriate actions to degrade their ability to do so. QUESTION: All right, thank you. MR MILLER: Go ahead. QUESTION: Thanks, Matthew. So I’ve been told by a reliable source that the IDF is looking into Red Cross personnel participating in the October 7th attack. Is the State Department aware of such an investigation? MR MILLER: I am not. QUESTION: Okay. And given the Axios report about State Department plans to possibly recognize an independent Palestine, what do you say to critics who would say that this is rewarding terrorism? MR MILLER: So I, first of all – sometimes I struggle to even know how to answer those types of questions. Not all – first of all, let me just say what I was about to say, which is I spoke to this at length earlier, but the idea that all Palestinians are terrorists is obviously just flat wrong. QUESTION: Not what I said. MR MILLER: Well, you critics say – whatever. It’s obviously flat wrong. And I would say those that – I’m not going to go there. Look, we believe that the – (laughter) — QUESTION: How can you be so sure? MR MILLER: Yeah — QUESTION: Have you polled 12,000 (inaudible) for terrorism? MR MILLER: So it’s – it is – I will say it’s – it is a ridiculous argument. It has been the longstanding policy of the United States to advance the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. It continues to be our policy, and it is our policy because we believe not only is that the right answer to the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people, but also because it is the answer to provide lasting security to the Israeli people. And the – never mind. QUESTION: And finally — MR MILLER: Yeah, sorry, I keep almost doing it and then – no, go ahead. QUESTION: And then finally, given the attacks in Jordan and elsewhere in the Middle East, have State Department personnel been evacuated? Has there been increased security at embassies and consulates in the region? MR MILLER: So we always take appropriate measures to protect our embassies, but we don’t – also don’t talk about those measures publicly. Said. QUESTION: Thank you. First of all — MR MILLER: Did you not get the notice the briefing had moved up? QUESTION: Yeah, first of all, I apologize for being late. MR MILLER: It’s fine. QUESTION: It’s Murphy’s law, and I don’t want to go into explaining. MR MILLER: I’m aware of Murphy’s law. QUESTION: You may have talked about this. I just want to follow up on the UNRWA thing. Has there been any development in terms of evidence or the validity of evidence and all these things about people who participated? MR MILLER: So there is evidence that the Israeli Government developed that they presented to us and that they presented to UNRWA. We found that evidence to be credible. But you don’t just have to take the United States Government’s — QUESTION: No, that — MR MILLER: Hold – let me – you don’t have just to take our opinion that the evidence was credible. UNRWA found the evidence credible as well. QUESTION: Okay. So let me ask you this then. I mean, look, Israel stands accused of committing genocide. Right, it’s an allegation — MR MILLER: That we reject — QUESTION: — whatever it was — MR MILLER: — and we believe is unfounded. QUESTION: — the ICJ and so on. But they continue to receive a lot of money. I mean, they get $3.8 billion a year. There is talk about pumping maybe $14 billion and so on. So how do you juxtapose these things all against one another? MR MILLER: So first of all, I’m – that’s kind of a loose question. QUESTION: Okay. MR MILLER: But I’ll say with respect to the charges of genocide, we believe that they’re unfounded, and we have said that we believe that they’re unfounded. We continue to support Israel’s right to take action to ensure that the terrorist attacks of October 7th cannot be repeated, but we want them to do so in a way that complies with – fully with international humanitarian law. QUESTION: Yeah, there are certainly settlers who serve in the Israeli army that you probably designate as either extremist or things of that nature. I mean, we can also look at the Israeli Government that has maybe 12 members who basically have called for the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians, but they continue to be members of that government in good standing, receiving a great deal of aid. Correct? MR MILLER: And we made clear our disagreements with the calls by members of the government to force Palestinians from their homes in Gaza. Not only did we say that publicly – you may recall us doing this a few weeks ago – but when the Secretary traveled to Israel on his most recent visit, he made clear that he thought it was important that the Israeli Government speak out against those matters and those comments publicly and reiterate that it is not the policy of the Israeli Government to force Palestinians from Gaza. And in the days after the Secretary left, that’s exactly what the Israeli Government did. QUESTION: And finally, it seems that members of Congress yesterday met with an Israeli official, and they discussed with him alternatives to UNRWA. Is the Government of the United States looking at alternatives to UNRWA? MR MILLER: So first of all, let me say that I obviously can’t speak for members of Congress and members of — QUESTION: (Inaudible.) MR MILLER: I know, I know. Just – and members of – let me just get it out, Said – and members of Congress don’t speak for the United States Government. We believe that UNRWA plays a critical role that cannot be replaced. There is no other humanitarian partner in the – in Gaza right now that could play the role that UNRWA does. QUESTION: Thank you. QUESTION: A follow-up? MR MILLER: Go ahead. I’ll come to you next, Willy. QUESTION: In two days, the House Foreign Affairs Committee is holding a hearing on the systematic torture and killing of former U.S. allies in Afghanistan by Taliban, who left behind by the Biden administration in Afghanistan. And UN also has documented hundred of similar cases. What the U.S. Government is doing to protect its allies in Afghanistan? MR MILLER: So I am not familiar with the testimony that was given today, and I want to make sure that I give a complete and accurate response. Let me take that question back. I want to see what the testimony actually was and give – and get you a response to it. Willy, go ahead. QUESTION: What about Afghan Adjustment Act? MR MILLER: I’m sorry? QUESTION: What about Afghan Adjustment Act? Don’t you think it’s the time to Biden administration to push the Congress for passing Afghan Adjustment Act? MR MILLER: Let me take – let me just take that one back. Willy, go ahead. QUESTION: Thanks, Matt. Appreciate it. I wanted to just go back to the Jenin hospital raid, just quickly. I have a colleague who spoke to – who went to the hospital, spoke to people there. So I know you’re still waiting for an assessment, but he said that there are reports, or that he had eyewitness accounts that the receptionist was knocked out cold with the butt of a gun. Is an action like that – is something that you would condone in the context of a, I guess, targeted assassination? MR MILLER: Again, it’s – I don’t – it’s always difficult when I get these types of questions, because you have allegations that are unverified, and I’m essentially asked to speak about something that’s not yet verified, and it’s very difficult to do so. I can only reiterate what I said yesterday, which is we do – we want to see hospitals protected; we want to see civilians protected. At the same time, Israel does have a right to carry out legitimate antiterrorism operations in Gaza and in the West Bank, but we want to see them do so in a way that respects international humanitarian law and also doesn’t increase instability in the West Bank. QUESTION: I have two questions, one on Venezuela and one on Mexico. The first one: Do you have any response to – that the Government of Venezuela’s threat to stop migration cooperation and not taking deportation flights? Yeah. And the second, on Mexico. Today, in the morning the Mexican president blamed the State Department directly for being behind the story published in ProPublica about his first presidential campaign being linked to drug money. What do you have to say about these reports? MR MILLER: So I don’t have an response to the first one. And with response to the second one, I haven’t even read the story. I have no idea – it’s hard to comment when I haven’t even — QUESTION: You have no response (inaudible). MR MILLER: It’s – I – it’s hard to comment on a story I haven’t even read. So I don’t have any comment, no. QUESTION: No story to both? MR MILLER: No, I – on that – no, I don’t have a specific response. I’m happy to take the first one and follow up on it. With respect to the second one, it’s just not something I’m going to comment on. QUESTION: Thank you. MR MILLER: Go ahead. QUESTION: (Off-mike.) MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: Thank you. Thank you, sir. Sir, there was a bomb blast in Pakistan at Imran Khan’s party – PTI – election rally. Do you have any comments on that? MR MILLER: So I will say you saw the department comment on this earlier today when the assistant secretary issued a tweet on it. We, as we did in that comment earlier today, extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by the attack on the PTI party rally in Pakistan. We believe in the resilience of the Pakistani people and their ability to recover. This attack is one of many we have seen in the last month against multiple parties across Pakistan. The election commission itself has come under attack in several places. We strongly condemn any violence which undermines the electoral process. The Pakistani people have the right to choose their leader without fear or – of reprisal or violence, and we remain committed to working with Pakistan to address the shared threat posed by terrorist groups throughout the region. And we support the Pakistani Government’s efforts to combat terrorism. QUESTION: Sir, Pakistani police arrested a number of PTI – Imran Khan’s party – workers for just – for a peaceful election rally. I mean, it looks like Pakistani Government is not going to allow PTI supporters, Imran Khan supporters, to just peacefully gather somewhere for the election. Really it looks like no more freedom of speech just for one party. No further — MR MILLER: So I can’t comment on that specific – on that specific report. I – because I haven’t seen it. But I will say, as we have long said, we want to see free and fair elections take place in Pakistan. QUESTION: I have one last question. MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: According to a media report, United States lost $3 billion drone sale to India until meaningful investigation of Sikh leader Mr. Pannun assassination conspiracy. Is it true or just a fake news? MR MILLER: So – (laughter) – I love – nice try. The – so I will say that generally the U.S.-Indian Defense Partnership has seen significant growth over the past decade. This is a proposed sale that was announced during Prime Minister Modi’s visit last year. We believe it offers significant potential to further advance strategic technology cooperation with India and military cooperation in the region. Of course, Congress plays – as you know – an important role in the U.S. arms transfer process. We routinely consult with members of Congress with the foreign – on the foreign affairs committees before our formal notification to – so we can address questions that they might have, but I don’t have any comment on when that formal notification might take place. And I said I’d come to you next, and then I’ll — QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. How accurate are the reports that the United States will hold the peace conference this fall between the Palestinian and the Israeli to establish or to discuss establishing the Palestinian state? MR MILLER: I have not seen those reports, but I don’t have any announcements of any such conferences to make today. QUESTION: Internationally, many consider that United States is not qualified and unsuitable to mediate this war between Palestinians and Israeli, especially the role of United States in Gaza war, and the strong relation ties between the United States and Israel. MR MILLER: So I will say that when we have traveled in the region, one of the things the Secretary has heard from countries in the region is that they welcome the United States’ role in both trying to resolve this crisis and in ultimately reaching a broader regional agreement to establish peace and security for both Israel and Palestinians alike, and of course for the broader region. What we have heard over and over again is it is a role that only the United States can play. It’s, of course, a very difficult one – these aren’t easy issues – but it is a role that we will continue to play because of how important the issues are. QUESTION: Okay, thank you. MR MILLER: And Simon, and then we’ll wrap. QUESTION: I wanted to ask a couple of things on Myanmar because you had some sanctions today and the anniversary of the coup is tomorrow – third anniversary of the coup that happened there. So obviously these sanctions are targeting fuel imports and imports to – for domestic arms production for the military. This is a military that’s engaged in a civil war. So I’m interested from the U.S. perspective, are you trying to – do you have a side that you’re supporting in the conflict between the Burmese military and groups that oppose the coup that they conducted? MR MILLER: So what we have done, and what I’ll reiterate today, is to call on the military regime to end its violence against the people of Burma, to release those unjustly and arbitrarily detained, to allow unhindered humanitarian access, and respect the will of the people for return to the path towards representative democracy. We have always supported the people of Burma and their ability to chart their own path, and – including through the actions that you saw us take today. We have ramped up our economic and political pressure on the military regime, including by restricting U.S. dollar transactions with state-owned enterprises that provide revenue enabling the military to harm and kill its own civilians. So we are going to continue to support efforts by the opposition to the regime and to seek a resolution to the conflict that provides for genuine and inclusive multi-party democracy. QUESTION: And in terms of those efforts to support opponents to the regime, the – last year’s NDAA included language that gives you the opportunity to provide nonlethal aid to People’s Defense Forces and ethnic armed groups in Burma. I wonder, are you providing any nonlethal aid to those groups? MR MILLER: Let me take that one back and get an answer. QUESTION: Sure. And just finally, the National Security Advisor met with Wang Yi in Bangkok on the weekend. Out of that came from the White House some discussion that the Burma/Myanmar was discussed in that meeting and talk about lower-level talks potentially between U.S. officials and Chinese officials on trying to resolve the conflict in Myanmar. Is there anything you can tell us on that? Are there a working-group-level meetings that are planned to try to discuss this with the Chinese? And what would you want the Chinese to do on that? MR MILLER: So there’s nothing that I can speak to today other than to say that we have – believe that Chinese engagement in this – on this issue could be constructive, and it’s something we’ll be following up on in the coming days and weeks. And we’ll have more to say at that time, but I don’t have anything to announce today. QUESTION: Thanks. MR MILLER: With that, we’ll wrap for today. Thanks, everyone. (The briefing was concluded at 1:22 p.m.) # # # Tags Burma China India Iran Iraq Israel Jordan North Korea Office of the Spokesperson Pakistan Palestinian Territories Russia Turkey Ukraine

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza Kaag

01/31/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza Kaag 01/31/2024 06:52 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza Sigrid Kaag in Washington, D.C.  Secretary Blinken and Coordinator Kaag discussed her recent consultations in the region and the most immediate humanitarian needs for civilians in Gaza.  They emphasized a shared commitment to coordinate closely with the UN, Israel, and Egypt to strengthen mechanisms to deliver humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians and to lay the foundations for long-term reconstruction in Gaza.  The Secretary expressed full confidence in Coordinator Kaag and strong support for her mandate. Tags Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Humanitarian Aid Office of the Spokesperson Palestinian Territories The Secretary of State United Nations

Joint Statement Marking Three Years Since the Military Coup in Myanmar

01/31/2024

Joint Statement Marking Three Years Since the Military Coup in Myanmar 01/31/2024 07:17 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The following is the text of a joint statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union, and the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Republic of Korea, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States, marking three years since the military coup in Myanmar.  Begin text: Three years ago, on 1 February 2021, the Myanmar military overthrew the democratically elected government, undoing a decade of progress.   Under the military regime, violence against civilians has escalated, with thousands jailed, tortured and killed. Airstrikes, shelling and arson have been used to destroy civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools, healthcare facilities and places of worship. Systematic discrimination against members of religious and ethnic groups, including Rohingya, is rife. Many are displaced and continue to face horrific conditions, and others have been forced to flee across Myanmar’s borders. The military’s actions have fuelled a growing humanitarian crisis with 2.6 million people displaced from their homes, and more than 18 million people in need.     We condemn in the strongest possible terms the military regime’s ongoing atrocities and human rights violations, such as sexual and gender-based violence, and the restriction of fundamental freedoms including freedom of expression, through peaceful protests and the media. We reiterate our call for the Commander-in-Chief and the military to change course, immediately ceasing violence against civilians, releasing all unjustly detained political prisoners, allowing full humanitarian access and creating space for inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders.   We strongly encourage unified efforts by ASEAN to resolve the crisis. We commend the constructive efforts of the ASEAN Chairs and Special Envoys. We call on the military regime to implement ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus and engage meaningfully and positively with ASEAN representatives, in order for Myanmar to transition towards an inclusive democracy.  We continue to support the full implementation of United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution 2669 (2022) and underline our support for UN Security Council activities to support ASEAN’s efforts to find a peaceful solution to the crisis. We call on the UN to strengthen its efforts on Myanmar including via the timely appointment of a Special Envoy and a Resident Coordinator and urge UN Member states to maintain their support to address urgent humanitarian needs in Myanmar.  We call on all members of the international community to support efforts to push the Myanmar military to cease violence, to bring about genuinely inclusive dialogue, in order to establish a credible, peaceful democratic future for Myanmar;  to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of people in Myanmar and refugees who have fled to neighbouring countries, including its most vulnerable communities, and to cease providing the Myanmar military with the arms and equipment that are necessary for them to commit atrocities.    Three years on from the military coup, we continue to stand in solidarity with the Myanmar people and their desire for an inclusive and genuine democracy in Myanmar.  End Text Tags Association of Southeast Asian Nations Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Burma Human Rights Office of the Spokesperson

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with UK Defense Secretary Shapps

01/31/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with UK Defense Secretary Shapps 01/31/2024 08:04 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps in Washington. They two discussed the recent attack on U.S. forces in Jordan.  Secretary Blinken underscored that the United States will hold accountable those responsible for the attack.  The two also discussed the ongoing situation in the Red Sea and international action to hold the Houthis accountable for their illegal and reckless attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. They reaffirmed their support for military and other assistance for Ukraine. Tags Office of the Spokesperson

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with UK Defense Secretary Shapps

01/31/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with UK Defense Secretary Shapps 01/31/2024 08:04 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps in Washington. They two discussed the recent attack on U.S. forces in Jordan.  Secretary Blinken underscored that the United States will hold accountable those responsible for the attack.  The two also discussed the ongoing situation in the Red Sea and international action to hold the Houthis accountable for their illegal and reckless attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. They reaffirmed their support for military and other assistance for Ukraine. Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Office of the Spokesperson

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with InterAction and Member NGOs

02/01/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with InterAction and Member NGOs 02/01/2024 08:16 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met yesterday with InterAction’s President and CEO Tom Hart and fellow NGO leaders to discuss the humanitarian situation in Gaza and continued U.S. efforts to increase humanitarian access and assistance for Palestinian civilians.  Secretary Blinken emphasized the imperative that civilians and humanitarian staff must be protected. He thanked the NGO leaders, staff, and local partners for their ongoing, tireless, and life-saving work to assist the people of Gaza and others in need around the world.

Under Secretary Fernandez Co-Chairs Eighth Senior Economic Dialogue with the Republic of Korea

02/01/2024

Under Secretary Fernandez Co-Chairs Eighth Senior Economic Dialogue with the Republic of Korea 02/01/2024 08:36 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez joined the Republic of Korea (ROK) Second Vice Foreign Minister Kang Insun to co-chair the 8th U.S.-ROK Senior Economic Dialogue (SED) in Seoul on January 31, 2024.  During the SED, Under Secretary Fernandez and Vice Foreign Minister Kang reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-ROK economic relationship and discussed enhanced collaboration in a number of important areas, including: Economic security:  The United States and ROK called for continued partnership in promoting economic security in the Indo-Pacific and globally.  This includes cooperation on investment security to ensure that cross-border investment flows do not present national security risks to either country.  Supply chains:  Both countries emphasized the need to maintain close coordination and bolster initiatives that promote diverse, resilient, and secure supply chains in the most critical and innovative technologies.  On critical minerals, each expressed continued support for cooperation on projects under the Minerals Security Partnership, which seeks to accelerate the development of diverse and sustainable critical energy minerals supply chains.  They also discussed joint collaboration on supply chains early warning systems, including through the Indo Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), to boost resilience in critical sectors.  Finally, the United States and ROK explored deepening cooperation and investment through the CHIPS and Science Act and Inflation Reduction Act, including in green technologies such as batteries and electric vehicles.  Infrastructure and development:  Each side reiterated a commitment to closing the infrastructure gap and building higher quality and more sustainable infrastructure, including through promoting open, interoperable, reliable, and secure information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure.   On advancing sustainable development, they detailed progress made in third countries in Southeast Asia on improving marine litter monitoring and management, advancing energy access, and improving environmental resilience, and the United States highlighted bilateral partnership in Africa, including through Power Africa.  The United States also outlined efforts to improve food security in Pacific Island countries through building on Feed the Future and expanding the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS). Clean Energy Transition:  The United States and ROK discussed collaborating with the private sector to meet decarbonization targets and working together on energy security, renewable capacity, and reducing methane emissions. The ROK is a key economic and trade partner, and the United States remains committed to deepening bilateral economic ties that will deliver real benefits to the American and Korean people and promote sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economic growth. For media inquiries, please contact E_Communications@state.gov.

U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Global Public Affairs Releases First Annual Domestic Outreach Report

02/01/2024

U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Global Public Affairs Releases First Annual Domestic Outreach Report 02/01/2024 09:32 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson Today, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Global Public Affairs released “Engaging at Home: Foreign Policy for the American People,” the inaugural report on the Bureau’s efforts in 2023 to engage with Americans on the ways in which our diplomacy and foreign policy impacts their lives here. The report shows the many ways our diplomats connected with Americans from all 50 states, including by sharing their experiences, discussing how domestic and foreign policies are inextricably linked, and clarifying how the Department’s work contributes to peace, stability, and prosperity both around the world and at home in the United States.  With outreach through people-to-people events and programs, the Department connects with civil society groups, the private sector, state and local governments, community organizations, and students, among other groups – not only raising awareness about the Department’s work, but also gathering diverse perspectives that directly shape it. By sharing this report, the Department seeks to raise awareness of how Americans can engage with and learn about diplomacy while also furthering our commitment to transparency and accountability.  By connecting with diverse groups of people from around the United States, we are seeking to fulfill our mission to serve all Americans. Read the full report here: www.state.gov/2023-engaging-at-home-report. For questions, please reach out via the contact us form.

Announcement of Further Measures to Promote Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank

02/01/2024

Announcement of Further Measures to Promote Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank 02/01/2024 12:56 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The United States has consistently opposed actions that undermine stability in the West Bank and the prospects of peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.  This includes attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and Palestinian attacks against Israelis.  There is no justification for extremist violence against civilians, whatever their national origin, ethnicity, or religion. The United States has therefore implemented new measures to address actions that undermine peace, security, and stability in the West Bank. This follows the related visa restriction policy announced by the State Department on December 5, 2023. Sanctions under the New Executive Order The United States has taken action against persons connected to escalating violence against civilians in the West Bank.  The Department of State is imposing financial sanctions on four individuals pursuant to a new Executive Order that President Biden announced today to promote accountability for certain harmful activities that threaten the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank.  The Executive Order establishes U.S. authority to issue financial sanctions against those directing or participating in certain actions, including acts or threats of violence against civilians, intimidating civilians to cause them to leave their homes, destroying or seizing property, or engaging in terrorist activity in the West Bank. Pursuant to section 1(a)(i)(A), the following individual is being designated for being responsible for or complicit in, or having directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in, actions — including directing, enacting, implementing, enforcing, or failing to enforce policies — that threaten the peace, security, or stability of the West Bank: DAVID CHAI CHASDAI initiated and led a riot, which involved setting vehicles and buildings on fire, assaulting Palestinian civilians, and causing damage to property in Huwara, which resulted in the death of a Palestinian civilian. Pursuant to section 1(a)(i)(B)(1), the following individuals are being designated for being responsible for or complicit in, or having directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in planning, ordering, otherwise directing, or participating in an act of violence or threat of violence targeting civilians, affecting the West Bank: EINAN TANJIL was involved in assaulting Palestinian farmers and Israeli activists by attacking them with stones and clubs, resulting in injuries that required medical treatment. SHALOM ZICHERMAN (ZICHERMAN), according to video evidence, assaulted Israeli activists and their vehicles in the West Bank, blocking them on the street, and attempted to break the windows of passing vehicles with activists inside.  ZICHERMAN cornered at least two of the activists and injured both. Pursuant to section 1(a)(i)(B)(2), the following individual is being designated for being responsible for or complicit in, or to have directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in planning, ordering, otherwise directing, or participating in efforts to place civilians in reasonable fear of violence with the purpose or effect of necessitating a change of residence to avoid such violence, affecting the West Bank: YINON LEVI (LEVI) led a group of settlers who engaged in actions creating an atmosphere of fear in the West Bank.  He regularly led groups of settlers from the Meitarim Farm outpost that assaulted Palestinian and Bedouin civilians, threatened them with additional violence if they did not leave their homes, burned their fields, and destroyed their property.  LEVI and other settlers at Meitarim Farm have repeatedly attacked multiple communities within the West Bank. Sanctions Implications: As a result of today’s action, and in accordance with the new E.O., all property and interests in property of the designated persons described above that are in the United States or in possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).  Additionally, all entities that are owned, either directly or indirectly, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked.  All transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons are prohibited unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC or exempt.  These prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any blocked person and the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.  Additionally, the entry of designated individuals into the United States is suspended pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 8693. The power and integrity of U.S. government sanctions derive not only from the U.S. government’s ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) List but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law.  The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior.  Petitions for removal from the SDN List can be sent to OFAC.Reconsideration@treasury.gov.  Petitioners may also refer to OFAC’s Frequently Asked Questions 897 here .  For more information on this new E.O, see full text.

Further Measures to Promote Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank

02/01/2024

Further Measures to Promote Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank 02/01/2024 01:29 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State The United States has consistently opposed actions that undermine stability in the West Bank and the prospects of peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike. This includes attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and Palestinian attacks against Israelis.  There is no justification for extremist violence against civilians, whatever their national origin, ethnicity, or religion. The United States is today implementing a series of measures to address such actions in the West Bank and impose accountability for those responsible for them. The Department of State is imposing financial sanctions on four Israeli nationals/individuals connected to violence against civilians in the West Bank.  These designations have been imposed under a new Executive Order establishing U.S. authority to issue financial sanctions against those directing or participating in acts or threats of violence against civilians, intimidation of civilians to cause them to leave their homes, destruction or seizure of property, or terrorist activity in the West Bank. Israel must do more to stop violence against civilians in the West Bank and hold accountable those responsible for it.  The United States will continue to take actions to advance the foreign policy objectives of the United States, including the viability of a two-state solution, and is committed to the safety, security, and dignity of Israelis and Palestinians alike. This new E.O. authorizes the imposition of sanctions on any foreign person determined to be responsible for or complicit in, or to have directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in actions – including directing, enacting, implementing, enforcing, or failing to enforce policies – that threaten the peace, security, or stability of the West Bank, as well as other specified harmful activities.

Further Measures to Promote Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank

02/01/2024

Further Measures to Promote Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank 02/01/2024 01:29 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State The United States has consistently opposed actions that undermine stability in the West Bank and the prospects of peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike. This includes attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and Palestinian attacks against Israelis.  There is no justification for extremist violence against civilians, whatever their national origin, ethnicity, or religion. The United States is today implementing a series of measures to address such actions in the West Bank and impose accountability for those responsible for them. The Department of State is imposing financial sanctions on four Israeli nationals/individuals connected to violence against civilians in the West Bank.  These designations have been imposed under a new Executive Order establishing U.S. authority to issue financial sanctions against those directing or participating in acts or threats of violence against civilians, intimidation of civilians to cause them to leave their homes, destruction or seizure of property, or terrorist activity in the West Bank. Israel must do more to stop violence against civilians in the West Bank and hold accountable those responsible for it.  The United States will continue to take actions to advance the foreign policy objectives of the United States, including the viability of a two-state solution, and is committed to the safety, security, and dignity of Israelis and Palestinians alike. This new E.O. authorizes the imposition of sanctions on any foreign person determined to be responsible for or complicit in, or to have directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in actions – including directing, enacting, implementing, enforcing, or failing to enforce policies – that threaten the peace, security, or stability of the West Bank, as well as other specified harmful activities.

U.S. Department of State Announces 2024 Spring Season of Next Level

02/01/2024

U.S. Department of State Announces 2024 Spring Season of Next Level 02/01/2024 03:53 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce the 10th anniversary season of the Next Level international exchange program is underway.  A key part of the United States’ Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, Next Level sends American aerosol artists, beatboxers, beatmakers, dancers, DJs, and MCs to engage audiences globally through hip hop with an aim to promote peace and democracy namely through conflict resolution in communities around the globe. The Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, launched by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in September 2023, aims to promote peace and democracy through music, and supports broader U.S. foreign policy goals to expand access to education, economic opportunity and equity, and societal inclusion. With the 2024 season already underway including workshops for underserved youth in Costa Rica, Olympic-focused programming in France, and a 10th anniversary event in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, American artists will teach and perform in nearly every region of the world during this spring season.  Next Level is implemented through a cooperative agreement with Meridian International Center and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The 2024 Next Level spring season includes: Limón, Costa Rica Dance: Kara Jenelle (Los Angeles, CA) MC: Queena Bergen (New Brunswick, NJ) Beatmaker: Rokmore (Houston, TX) Beatboxer: Exacto (New York, NY) Paris, France Dance: Ken Fury (New York, NY) MC: Def-i (Albuquerque, NM) DJ: Amore Querida (New York, NY) Aerosol: Danielle Mastrion (New York, NY) Taoyuan, Taiwan Dance: Dez (Washington, DC) MC: Rah Digga (Newark, NJ) DJ: Rugged One (Somerville, MA) Aerosol: Jurne (Oakland, CA) Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Dance: Lady Beast (Boston, MA) MC: Dee-1 (Boston, MA) DJ: Nick Neutronz (New York, NY) Beatmaker: Krithi (New York, NY) Auckland, New Zealand Dancer: Lady Sol (Chicago, IL) MC: Dior Brown (Washington, DC) Beatmaker: SlopFunkDust (Tampa, FL) Aerosol: MAST (San Francisco, CA) For more information on the United States’ global efforts to promote peace and democracy through music, contact eca-press@state.gov.

Launch of United States-People’s Republic of China Counternarcotics Working Group

02/01/2024

Launch of United States-People’s Republic of China Counternarcotics Working Group 02/01/2024 04:53 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson On January 30, Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Homeland Security Advisor Jen Daskal led a U.S. interagency delegation to Beijing, the People’s Republic of China, to coordinate efforts to counter the global manufacturing and trafficking of illicit synthetic drugs, including fentanyl.  The delegation included representatives from the Department of State, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, Department of the Treasury, and White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Assistant Secretary for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Todd D. Robinson also met separately with PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director General of the North American and Oceanian Affairs Department Yang Tao and Ministry of Public Security Director General of the International Cooperation Department Hu Binchen.  In these meetings, Assistant Secretary Robinson discussed the need for deeper counternarcotics collaboration between the United States and the PRC at all levels, including policymaking, law enforcement coordination, and the sharing of technical information and best practices that can benefit both countries and the world. The U.S.-PRC Counternarcotics Working Group complements other ongoing efforts by the State Department to counter the scourge of fentanyl, including the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats.  It is a mechanism for ongoing bilateral communication and policy and law enforcement coordination to support and implement concrete enforcement actions and exchange information on counternarcotics efforts, which will help to save lives in the United States and around the world.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora

02/01/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora 02/01/2024 05:53 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Thomas Jefferson Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good afternoon, everyone. Cabinet Secretary, it’s a pleasure to have you here today. So good to see you. For us, Kenya is a key democratic partner, and we see increasingly our countries working together not only on the bilateral issues and opportunities that we have, but also to deal with regional and global challenges. And we’re grateful for that partnership. The work that Kenya is doing to promote regional peace and security, the efforts that we’re also making together to deepen and strengthen our economic relationship – all of these I think are very important and positive signs of the depth and breadth of the relationship. And I know we have a lot to cover today, but it’s particularly good to have you here. So welcome. CABINET SECRETARY MUDAVADI: Yeah, good. Thank you for having us, and my delegation. Let me at this very early point in this conversation extend our greetings from President Ruto. He is happy that you have accorded us this opportunity so that we can engage. And we look forward to consolidating our partnership on the various issues that have to be tackled. So we are happy to be here, and thank you so much. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora

02/01/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora 02/01/2024 05:53 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Thomas Jefferson Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good afternoon, everyone. Cabinet Secretary, it’s a pleasure to have you here today. So good to see you. For us, Kenya is a key democratic partner, and we see increasingly our countries working together not only on the bilateral issues and opportunities that we have, but also to deal with regional and global challenges. And we’re grateful for that partnership. The work that Kenya is doing to promote regional peace and security, the efforts that we’re also making together to deepen and strengthen our economic relationship – all of these I think are very important and positive signs of the depth and breadth of the relationship. And I know we have a lot to cover today, but it’s particularly good to have you here. So welcome. CABINET SECRETARY MUDAVADI: Yeah, good. Thank you for having us, and my delegation. Let me at this very early point in this conversation extend our greetings from President Ruto. He is happy that you have accorded us this opportunity so that we can engage. And we look forward to consolidating our partnership on the various issues that have to be tackled. So we are happy to be here, and thank you so much. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone.

Department Press Briefing – February 1, 2024

02/01/2024

Department Press Briefing – February 1, 2024 02/01/2024 07:49 PM EST HomeDepartment Press Briefing – February 1, 2024 hide Department Press Briefing – February 1, 2024 February 1, 2024 2:05 p.m. EST MR MILLER: I wanted to wait for you to get — QUESTION: Sorry. MR MILLER: I wanted to wait for you to get — QUESTION: I won’t – I just — MR MILLER: I would like to blame the uncomfortable pause for my waiting for you, but in fact I was just trying to pull up my opening comments. QUESTION: Apologize for being – for being late. I had to take a call. MR MILLER: It’s quite all right. QUESTION: But I will defer. MR MILLER: Well, good because I have something to start with. President Biden and Secretary Blinken have been clear that the levels of violence we have seen in the West Bank over the past few months are unacceptable. Violence in the West Bank surged to alarming levels in 2023. This includes unprecedented levels of violence by Israeli extremist settlers targeting Palestinians and their property, as well as violence by Palestinian extremist militants against Israeli civilians. Earlier today, the President issued a new executive order establishing U.S. authority to impose financial sanctions against foreign persons engaged in actions that threaten the peace, security, or stability of the West Bank. Under the authority granted by that order, the State Department is today imposing financial sanctions on four Israeli nationals for their destabilizing acts in the West Bank. Today’s action follows on the step we took in December to impose visa restrictions on dozens of individuals for contributing to violence and instability in the West Bank. There is no justification for extremist violence against civilians, whatever their national origin, ethnicity, or religion. The President and the Secretary have both raised our concerns with their Israeli and Palestinian counterparts about the level of violence in the West Bank and stressed that Israel must do more to stop violence against civilians and hold accountable those responsible for it. We continue to make clear that expectation to the Government of Israel, and as we do, the United States will also continue to take actions to advance the safety, security, and dignity of Israelis and Palestinians alike. Matt. QUESTION: So – well, I said I would defer, but actually now I won’t. MR MILLER: No, I thought you meant you were deferring to me, not deferring to a colleague. QUESTION: No, no, no, I was going to defer to colleagues. MR MILLER: I was even more surprised. That’s even more surprising. QUESTION: But just – but just on this, I mean, do you have any indication that any of these four people have any assets that could actually be targeted? MR MILLER: So I will defer to the Treasury Department to speak to the specific flow of assets. But I will say that when we impose financial sanctions of this nature it is not just a question of assets that can be frozen. It’s also a question of transactions that individuals and organizations take that may flow through or in some way interact with the U.S. financial system, which, as you know, a good deal of transactions that take place all over the world tend to do. QUESTION: Yes, I do because I was just on the phone with a bank. (Laughter.) Not about this. MR MILLER: Fair enough. QUESTION: But yes. So, but – so you do think it will have an actual impact on these people? MR MILLER: We do think it will have an impact on these four individuals, and our expectation is that the activities we have taken both raising this with the Government of Israel and making clear our expectation that they do more to hold accountable those responsible for settler violence. The visa restrictions that we imposed in December and the actions we imposed today will all have an impact, and we remain willing to impose additional actions if necessary. QUESTION: Okay, and then last one. Just the four today, and are they also hit with the travel ban, the visa restrictions? MR MILLER: We – so we are not – we have the same – we’re back to the place we were before with the travel ban, which is we are not by law allowed to announce the impositions of visa restrictions. QUESTION: Well, how many people have been affected by both the – your order in December on the travel ban and today. MR MILLER: So dozens of the visa restrictions – and I can’t give you — QUESTION: Dozens is — MR MILLER: Dozens. Dozens. I can’t get any more specific than that. And then four — QUESTION: Three dozen? Four dozen? MR MILLER: Dozens. And then four, four individuals today. QUESTION: So — MR MILLER: Dozens plus four. Try to try that math. QUESTION: Dozens plus four. So it could be 28? MR MILLER: It’s dozens. I can’t get any more specific than that. QUESTION: So Matt, while this is one of the most significant actions by the administration, I’m wondering – a lot of people point out that many of these settlers do have U.S. citizenship. So I wonder what tools, if any, does the United States have if it wants to take actions against these settlers with U.S. citizenship. MR MILLER: So I would say that the first responsibility here for policing destabilizing action, for policing violence in the West Bank, is with the Government of Israel, and the Government of Israel that is on the ground that we have been very clear needs to do more to arrest extremist settlers engaged in violence and prosecute extremist settlers engaged in violence, and that we have made that clear to them. We have seen them take some additional steps since we began these interventions, both the Secretary in his trips to the region and the President in his various phone calls with Prime Minister Netanyahu. That’s the first – like, the first line of responsibility is with the Israeli Government, and we continue to hope that they will do more. But then we are willing and, as we have shown through our actions both with the visa bans and the actions we take today, committed to taking further actions within our ability to police settler violence, extremist settler violence, and we’ll continue to take additional steps as necessary. But I don’t have anything else to preview. QUESTION: And when you say we’re willing to take further action, do you mean against Israeli settlers with dual citizenship, or just U.S. citizenship? Do you mean the — MR MILLER: I just don’t have any further actions to preview today. But we think it’s important that extremist settler violence be – that those involved in it be held accountable for their actions, whatever their citizenship. QUESTION: Okay. And there is also another criticism out there, that this reduces the problem just to individuals, whereas there seems to be a targeted institutionalized effort to expand the settlements in the West Bank. You guys have been raising this issue with the Israelis for a while. But I mean, how do you go about solving that problem, really? Because I mean – and again, attached to that I want to ask: What exact answer is the Secretary and U.S. officials in this building are getting from Israeli Government when they raise this issue? It’s – because it’s clear that you don’t seem to be satisfied with the actions that they’re taking. MR MILLER: So what – without betraying too much of our private diplomatic conversations, I will say we have had some very frank conversations with them about extremist settler violence. And that includes some very detailed conversations where we have presented cases to the Israeli Government, cases of settler violence that – where we have seen reports, and where we have seen documented settler violence, and asked them to take action. And we have seen them take some action. And so we’ve engaged in a back and forth with them, both at the – at the Secretary’s level and through our embassy. What we have seen – and I should say we have seen since those interventions over the past month, six weeks, two months, we have seen the level of extremist settler violence come down somewhat. Not come down enough; we want to see more. But the interventions that we’ve made have, we believe, made a difference. But we want to see it continue to come down, which is why we have taken the actions today. With respect to your questions about settlements, we have made clear that we think the expansion of settlements in the West Bank undermine peace, undermine stability, threaten an ultimate – the ultimate establishment of a Palestinian – independent Palestinian state, make it more difficult. And so we will continue to engage with the Israeli Government on that matter as well. QUESTION: Could I follow up? QUESTION: Just a follow-up. MR MILLER: Let me go to Shaun first. Let me go to Shaun first, and I’ll come back. QUESTION: Just a – just on the Israeli response to this. You’ve probably seen Netanyahu’s office is saying, hey, look, Israel – I mean, I’m paraphrasing – Israel has laws, we punish people who break the law; we don’t need the U.S. to do this. What’s – is there a response to that? I mean, is that – is – why haven’t they done it, then? Is that – I mean, is there a – do you think that’s a valid argument in itself? MR MILLER: So they do have laws against violence, obviously, and we have seen them, as I said, take some steps to rein in settler violence. But we don’t think those steps have been sufficient, which is why you’ve seen us take a series of actions, starting in December and continuing with the President’s executive order and the sanctions we imposed today. QUESTION: Sure. I have some peripherally related, but if you want to, please. MR MILLER: Yeah. Go ahead, Said. QUESTION: I just want to clarify the point that Humeyra raised on both regarding your citizens, U.S. citizens. If they have, like, assets and properties and so on, could they – or is that a Justice Department issue? Could they be seized or frozen, something like this? MR MILLER: This executive order is targeted at foreign persons. QUESTION: Okay. All right. And on the issue of the settlements, you have – obviously, you have leveraged sanctioning the settlers, extremist settlers, and so on. But you are not leveraging the settlement expansions, and so on. So I know Humeyra asked, but I didn’t really quite understand what you tried to say. MR MILLER: My answer was that we have been quite clear that we oppose — QUESTION: Right. MR MILLER: — the expansion of settlements. We believe that they undermine prospects for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, they threaten peace and security and stability in the West Bank, and we have made that clear with the Government of Israel. We’ll continue to make it clear with them. QUESTION: Is that including efforts to reverse some of the settlement – the illegal settlements back? MR MILLER: We have made clear that we oppose the expansion of settlements. Obviously, the issue of settlements has been a topic of dispute for some time, something that we have said needs to be resolved in final negotiations over the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. But we oppose the expansion of settlements. QUESTION: I have a couple more, but – if I may. MR MILLER: Go ahead. Yeah. QUESTION: Yeah. One, have you – have you heard about the H.R. 6679 that was passed today in the House? MR MILLER: I have. QUESTION: About restricting visas of Hamas but also the PLO. I mean, the PLO is someone that you interlocute with. They have come – they have – they come to New York. They come to other places, and so on. How is that going to affect them? Why is that? MR MILLER: Well, it’s not — QUESTION: And of course, with the congressional approval — MR MILLER: Right now it has no effect, because it’s draft legislation. We don’t have – we – I don’t have any comment on a draft legislation. QUESTION: All right. Okay, that’s fine. On – just a couple more things. The chief of – the chiefs of WHO, UNICEF, and several other organizations, NGOs — MR MILLER: The chief of who? Sorry. QUESTION: They — MR MILLER: Bad – you’re old enough to – you’re old enough to remember. QUESTION: “Who’s on first?” MR MILLER: You’re old enough to get the joke. The WHO, I think you mean? Yeah. Right. (Laughter.) QUESTION: Yeah. WHO. Okay. MR MILLER: I thought first, “Who’s on first?” Yeah, who’s on second? QUESTION: Yeah, who’s on second. Exactly. QUESTION: What’s on second. QUESTION: What’s on second. All right. QUESTION: I don’t know is on third. QUESTION: We know that one. Okay, all right. MR MILLER: There are a lot of people in this room who have no idea what we’re talking about right now. (Laughter.) Sorry, go ahead. QUESTION: Us old-timers know it. MR MILLER: Go ahead, Said. QUESTION: So the chiefs of these organizations have warned that suspending financial aid is going to result in a total disaster. I mean, there are reports about just looming famine and so on, and I know I asked about this yesterday, but it seems to have gained more urgency, especially that Lazzarini said that without the aid they can operate – they cannot possibly operate beyond the end of this month. MR MILLER: So I don’t really have anything to add to what I said yesterday, which is that, number one, there is an urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza. It’s why – it’s what has animated all of the efforts from the Secretary and others in the U.S. Government to try to get humanitarian assistance in. Number two, UNRWA plays a critical role. You have heard us say that dating back to before Friday when these allegations were announced publicly and we temporarily paused our aid. You’ve seen us say it since then. And number three, that is why we think it is so important that the United Nations conduct a prompt, thorough investigation to make sure that there is accountability and make sure that any reforms that need to be instituted are put in place. It is, as I said yesterday, precisely because the need is so dire that it’s important that the United Nations conduct a prompt and thorough investigation. QUESTION: Can I just ask you one thing on this? MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: The – related to the conflict. The Qataris today are saying that they had, I think the phrase they used is “initial positive confirmation” from Hamas about the proposal that CIA Chief Burns has been involved in regarding a temporary truce for the hostage release. Do you have any latest assessment about where things are going and whether there’s any more optimism about this? MR MILLER: I just don’t think I should offer any – either an assessment from this podium or a kind of detailed play-by-play of the back and forth, other than to say that as you heard the Secretary say earlier this week, we think the proposal that was on the table was a strong, constructive one, and for now I should leave it at that. QUESTION: Maybe not a detailed play-by-play but a general play-by-play. Have there been calls or anything — MR MILLER: Neither a detailed nor a general play-by-play, I don’t think, would be helpful for me to offer from here. QUESTION: Matt, the Secretary met with some Palestinian Americans today for a roundtable. A number of people have said they refused the invitation in protest of the administration’s policies toward Gaza. Do you have any comment? MR MILLER: So the Secretary did meet today with a number of leaders of the Palestinian American community. It was the latest in a series of meetings that the Secretary has had with individuals and organizations both within the department and from outside the department that hold a wide range of views across the ideological and political spectrum, and he has held these meetings because he thinks it’s important to hear directly from individuals, as I said, both inside the State Department and outside the State Department. He finds that process to be constructive. It informs his thinking. It helps him, he believes, shape policy in the best way possible, and he’ll continue to hold such meetings. QUESTION: Has it shaped policy – any of these meetings, though? I mean, we haven’t really seen — MR MILLER: I can say that every interaction that we have enters into the Secretary’s thinking and enters into other policymakers’ thinking in the administration. That doesn’t mean, obviously, that we agree with every person that we meet with. It doesn’t mean that we expect them to agree with everything that we say. Of course that’s not true. But we find the give and take valuable and yes, it very much does inform his thinking and informs the decisions that he makes. QUESTION: Can you say how many people attended the roundtable today? MR MILLER: I don’t. The meeting was ongoing when I came down here for the podium, so I don’t have a detailed readout. Alex. QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. A couple questions, as we will not see you next couple of days. Can you speak to the EU’s today’s decision of a 50 billions package to Ukraine, its significance, and how much do you think it should hold a mirror up to the U.S. Congress? MR MILLER: So we welcome the continued support of our European allies and partners for Ukraine as it depends – defends itself from Russia’s aggression. And I would say, as you have heard multiple people from inside the administration say, it is important that the U.S. Congress act as soon as possible to advance our national security interests by helping Ukraine defend itself and secure its future. And I think the decision by the EU today just highlights something that you have heard the Secretary say over and over again, which is it is not just the United States that is supporting Ukraine; it is a broad coalition of allies and partners in Europe and around the world who are doing so. And in fact, when you look at the financial contribution that has been made to support Ukraine, the European nations have contributed more. The United States has contributed somewhere around $75 billion in assistance. The European nations collectively have contributed around $110 billion. So this is very much a collective effort, and we believe it is in the national security interests of the United States that the Congress do its part and step up and pass the supplemental request that the President has put forward. QUESTION: Thank you. And separately, staying on the region, Russia today has extended its detention of RFE/RL reporter Alsu Kurmasheva. Firstly, your reaction to it. And secondly, some European countries sent their representatives to the – to the processing. Why weren’t the Americans in the room? MR MILLER: So we are aware of the extension of her detention in Russia. We remain deeply concerned about this matter. We have no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens. And I will say with respect to – with respect to her detention, or her hearing today, because of Russian Government-imposed staffing and travel restrictions, Embassy Moscow was unable to attend the hearing in Kazan where she is being held. We continue to see consular access to Ms. Kurmasheva and insist that Russia allow consistent, timely consular access to all U.S. citizens. And I will say because – although we were not able to attend the hearing because of these Russian Government-imposed staffing and travel restrictions, we are in close touch with her legal team about the matter. QUESTION: Thank you. A final one on Azerbaijan. Yesterday, I asked you about the snap elections in Azerbaijan. The OSCE overnight came up with its initial report, highlighted some concerns, particularly the candidates previously supporting the current president. Where are you standing on this? MR MILLER: I just don’t have any comment on the internal elections inside Azerbaijan. QUESTION: Is that because it’s not significant enough or is that because — MR MILLER: I’m sorry? I just don’t have any comment on it. QUESTION: Are you also aware — QUESTION: Can we go back — QUESTION: Are you also following the events in Georgia? The prime minister stepped down and got replaced – actually is being replaced with another ruling party leader. What are you – what’s your reading about that? MR MILLER: So we’re obviously aware of the formation of a new government and the discussions coming up in parliament. Our embassy works closely with the Georgian Government, and we look forward to continuing that relationship. QUESTION: Thank you. MR MILLER: Abbie. QUESTION: I just had one follow-up on the line of questioning earlier with Humeyra about the individuals who had been sanctioned earlier today. Senior administration officials had said some of those individuals had already been prosecuted under the Israeli system. How many of the four had already been prosecuted? MR MILLER: Three of those four had been prosecuted; one had not. QUESTION: So actions had already been taken. Are – did you feel that those actions didn’t go far enough that the Israelis took? MR MILLER: We thought it was appropriate to take additional U.S. Government action, and we will continue to monitor the levels of extremist settler violence and will not hesitate to take additional actions as necessary. Go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you, sir. MR MILLER: Sorry, Michel. I’ll come to you next. QUESTION: No, no. MR MILLER: Yeah. Go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you, sir. My question is about U.S.-India diplomacy or diplomatic relations between the two countries. India’s top diplomat to the U.S., Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu – he’s ending his tenure today after almost four years, or one of the longest-serving U.S. – India’s diplomat to Washington. What he said, that he had been thanking the State Department, the media, and also people of the United States for cooperating with him in his tenure in Washington. During the last few weeks at the farewells, he said that diplomatic relations between the two countries have gone up between President Biden and Prime Minister Modi. But also at the same time, because when he arrived in Washington, the very next month COVID started and he was stuck two years in the embassy or the in the residence. But at that time, thousands of students and Indians were stuck in Washington because colleges, universities, and schools were closed, and with the help of the State Department and – he was able to send them back to India a while earlier. My question is that – also he met with the Secretary of State also quite a few times, and he was also, of course, instrumental bringing Prime Minister Modi last year in June in Washington, and finally G20 visits also he – so where his general stance as far as State Department’s concerned or Secretary of State is concerned? Where do we go, where we stand today, after – well, he’s leaving today – Washington. MR MILLER: So I would say that our partnership with India is one of most consequential relationships. We work closely with India on our most vital priorities. We have had a close working relationship with the ambassador, have been able to work with him on a number of those shared priorities, including the crucial role India plays in ensuring a free, open Indo-Pacific that is connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient. We wish him well in his future endeavors and look forward to welcoming his replacement. QUESTION: And finally, do ambassadors play different role, different ambassadors, when they come to Washington here? Let’s say many other Indian diplomats were here, ambassadors, and many will be coming back or new will be coming back and replacing him. MR MILLER: So I think every ambassador approaches their tenure differently, both inside countries from ambassador to ambassador and, in my experience, among different countries represented here in Washington. QUESTION: And finally – sorry. MR MILLER: Yeah, go ahead. QUESTION: Finally, how do you put relations between Secretary of State Blinken and India’s defense – foreign minister Dr. Jaishankar? MR MILLER: They have a close working relationship, where they are able to engage on some of our most urgent and important priorities. Obviously the Secretary has traveled to India to meet with the foreign minister on a number of occasions. He’s welcomed him here, he’s met with him in New York on the margins of the UN General Assembly, and we look forward to continuing to work with him. Michel. QUESTION: Thank you very much, sir. QUESTION: Mali military authority has ended the 2015 peace deal with Tuareg separatist rebels due to other signatories not sticking to their commitments and hostile acts by chief mediator, Algeria, as they said. Do you have any comment on that? MR MILLER: So we regret the transition government’s withdrawal from the Algiers Accord, which if fully implemented would have provided more stability for all Malians and the whole region. We remain concerned by the resumption of hostilities and the risk of returning to civil war among the signatory armed groups to the Algiers Accord and the transition government, including its Wagner Group partners. QUESTION: And Algerian media points finger to – or at Morocco for Mali’s withdrawal from the peace agreement. Do you think that Morocco played any role in this regard? MR MILLER: I wouldn’t want to comment on that, other than to say that we do believe that the withdrawal from the accord was unfortunate, and we regret that the transition government made that decision. QUESTION: And no role that Morocco has played? MR MILLER: I don’t have any comment on that. QUESTION: Thanks. QUESTION: Can we stay in Africa? MR MILLER: Sure. Yeah. QUESTION: Kenya. I know the meeting I believe is this afternoon — MR MILLER: Yeah. QUESTION: — as – but the Secretary meeting the – Kenya’s top diplomat about Haiti, obviously. I know there was a statement that was issued over the weekend, but is the U.S. still hopeful that Kenya can lead this mission in Haiti, or is there a look now for a plan B? It’s been well over a year since the U.S. started talking about this. MR MILLER: We are still hopeful. Obviously we saw the decision by the Kenyan Supreme Court last week. We noted that the executive branch in Kenya declared that they would appeal that ruling. We will be watching that matter closely. We do think that the multinational force is important to go forward as soon as possible. We continue to work with international partners, both Kenya and other international partners, about funding for that multinational police force and want to see it implemented as soon as possible. Go ahead. Start over here. QUESTION: Thank you. Going back to Gaza, the UN Secretary-General Guterres today warned that the humanitarian system in Gaza is collapsing, saying that everyone is hungry and 1.7 million have been displaced. Do you have anything on that, any updates on your efforts to address the humanitarian situation and hunger in Gaza? MR MILLER: So we continue to work to try to increase the flow of humanitarian assistance in, and I think one of the ways I would address that is so the – we have seen a number of problems, right, with delivering humanitarian assistance to – actually not just into Gaza but to the people in Gaza, and chief among those problems is not just the ability to get aid into Gaza but then to actually deliver it to the people who need it inside Gaza because of the intense nature of fighting in an ongoing conflict. So what we saw during the last humanitarian pause, the one that was implemented in late November, was a surge in humanitarian assistance into Gaza and an increase in the distribution of that humanitarian assistance once it got inside Gaza for the reasons I just articulated. So one of the reasons we think another hostage – another pause would be so important is not just to secure the release of the hostages who are still being held by Hamas, but also because it would enable the sustained increase in distribution of humanitarian assistance. So I think what we – we would say that we have pursued this pause intensively, and we have made clear it’s a priority of the United States. Other countries in the region have made clear it’s a priority for all of these same reasons, and we are hopeful that – and it’s why we hope that Hamas, which continues to hold hostages and continues to hide behind human shields and continues to take activities that makes it so difficult to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza – we hope that they will agree to a pause. QUESTION: And do you have any updates on the possibility of another pause in Gaza? MR MILLER: I don’t. As I said earlier to I think it was Shaun’s question, I just don’t think it’s productive for me to give a play-by-play about what are intense private negotiations from here. Yeah. QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. After the attack on – in Jordan, the Iraqi Government took some steps, and they mentioned these groups – to put statements and suspend their attacks. So as you are seeking to retaliate and responding these groups, especially KH in Iraq, how do you get engaged with the Iraqi Government? How do you notify the Iraqi Government that you are responding these groups who were responsible for the attack in Jordan? MR MILLER: So I’m not going to speak to any one particular communication with the Government of Iraq, but we have made clear to the Government of Iraq for months, going well back – well before this attack over the weekend – that we wanted to see the Government of Iraq do more to police attacks on our forces, to hold accountable those responsible for attacks on our forces, and that if – that we would not hesitate to take action to defend ourselves. And that continues to be our message to the Government of Iraq. It was our message before the horrific attacks of last weekend; it will continue to be our message. QUESTION: For the last attacks, the Iraqi Government put statements and they condemned your attacks on the militia groups inside Iraq, and so they said this is a violation to the Iraqi sovereignty. As you have a good relations with the Iraqi Government, is there any concern that if you do another attack in Iraqi land or – that will make the Iraqi Government upset of you and something like that? MR MILLER: So I am not going to – it’s difficult to answer that question without commenting on the location, let alone the timing, of future attacks, which I am not – or future responses that the United States might take, which I am not going to do, as we consistently have not done from this podium. But as a general matter, we have made quite clear to the Iraqi Government, as I’ve just said before, that we will not hesitate to defend U.S. forces. We have taken action to defend U.S. forces inside Iraq. That is – it is our responsibility to do so, and we will continue to do that. Go ahead. QUESTION: Recently the House Foreign Affairs Committee was holding a meeting on the former Afghan security forces and the U.S. allies in Afghanistan who left behind by the Biden administration. They are killing and torturing systematically by Taliban. What does the Biden administration is doing to protect them, the U.S. – the former U.S. allies in Afghanistan? MR MILLER: So again, I am – I was not following that hearing. I’m not familiar with all the testimony that’s given that – so I’m reluctant to comment in detail, but we continue to call on the Taliban to take steps to gain international legitimacy, to stop the crackdown on the legitimate expression by its own people, and that’s what we’ve done and what we’ll continue to do. QUESTION: What about — MR MILLER: One more and then I’ve got to go — QUESTION: More than two years have passed since collapse of Taliban by – collapse of Kabul by Taliban, but based on the CNN report, more than 80,000 SIV cases are still pending. Don’t you think by considering the situation in Afghanistan, the U.S. Biden administration should be accelerate those cases? MR MILLER: We have been working very hard to accelerate those cases and work through the backlog, and we’ll continue to do so. All the way in the back, because I’ve – I apologize yesterday for missing you, so let me make sure I get to you today. QUESTION: Thank you. I have three quick questions, the first one related to — MR MILLER: I didn’t say you get three questions. (Laughter.) QUESTION: One for today and – one for today, two for yesterday. MR MILLER: Fair enough. I did miss you yesterday. QUESTION: Yeah, okay. The first question is, like, related – Russia and Ukraine. President Putin suggested creating a buffer zone – demilitarized, like, buffer zone between Russia and Ukraine. Do you support this idea or not? And this is the first question, if you support – if you support a buffer zone, demilitarized, between Russia and Ukraine. MR MILLER: So I’m struggling to understand how a demilitarized zone between Russia and Ukraine would be implemented when Russian forces are currently inside Ukraine. Kind of tough to have a demilitarized zone when Russian forces continue to operate on the Ukrainian side of the border and have made – and President Putin has made clear over and over again that he has not changed his aims to conquer and subjugate Ukraine. So as to – so I think if the – if Russia really wanted to show interest in a demilitarized zone, the thing they could do is start by demilitarizing the parts of Ukraine where there are currently Russian forces. QUESTION: Okay. So a second question: Do you accept any roles for China or Russia, and specifically China, in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict? As we saw, like, China played roles between Saudi Arabia and Iran; they looked like a peacemaker in the area, like they don’t have any criticizing toward the bias. You have a lot of criticizing that you are – have a bias toward Israel, providing them military aid, supporting their back in the United Nations, et cetera. So do you accept any roles for China, Russia, like, for playing any peacemaking roles between Palestinian and the Israelis or not? Last question: What — MR MILLER: Yeah, well, let me just – let me do that one first. Let me take them – and let me take them in order. So with respect to China, we have made quite clear, including in direct conversations between the – Secretary Blinken and his Chinese counterpart, that we would welcome constructive Chinese engagement in the region, both to urge de-escalation – China has a number of relationships with countries in the region where we think they could use those relationships to a positive end – and if it wanted to play a constructive role in helping resolve the ongoing conflict and ensuring lasting peace and stability, that is very much something we would welcome. With – as it pertains to Russia, we have not seen Russia really play a stabilizing role in the Middle East. In fact, if you look at Russia’s actions in Syria, it has played a destabilizing role, so I think it’s very hard to contemplate Russia playing anything of a constructive role in helping to end this conflict. QUESTION: Okay, last question. MR MILLER: Last question. QUESTION: Yeah, last question. Do you think that it’s a tangible goal that you can really destroy Hamas 100 percent even as a military militia or as a political party in Palestine? Because now it’s like over three months, almost four months, and according to The Wall Street Journal and many other mainstream medias, Hamas is still strong, like, by 70 or 80 percent. Or we are going to see, like, Taliban scenario, like strong statements about terrorist group, blah, blah, blah, and then see you or Israel sitting in the same table and Qatar sign a deal? MR MILLER: Sure. Let me – I got the – I got it. So there are – we do believe there are military objectives pertaining to the defeat of Hamas that can be accomplished, and you have seen Israel accomplish some of those objectives. They have taken out a number of Hamas leaders. They have dismantled, through their military actions, a number of Hamas battalions. There are other objectives that they have not yet met. But just as a strict military — QUESTION: How long – how long can they stay? MR MILLER: Let me – let me finish. Just as a strict military matter, there are objectives that can be met. But – and you have heard the Secretary speak to this – we also have to put forward a better idea as a political question to speak directly to the Palestinian people, and – that there is a better idea than the terrorism and death and destruction that Hamas offers. And that very much has to be part of what the United States Government and other countries in the region and Israel are putting forward. And as you have heard us say, we believe that ultimately the better idea is the establishment of an independent Palestinian state that gives answer to the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people — QUESTION: Demilarized? Demilarized, like independent states? MR MILLER: I don’t – I just don’t have any comment on that. Go ahead. QUESTION: So going back to the package adopted today by the EU, that was a financial support package. Meanwhile, some lawmakers at the Capitol Hill are pushing to remove at least some of the financial aid from the supplemental. Do you think – do you still think this is vital to adopt the economic aid part of the package? And I have another one, somewhat relatedly, maybe. MR MILLER: Yeah. Let me just answer that question. QUESTION: Okay. Yeah. MR MILLER: We absolutely do think that both the economic and security assistance components of the supplemental request the President made are vital. QUESTION: Okay. MR MILLER: Go ahead. QUESTION: And so Assistant Secretary O’Brien tweeted today – X’ed – about the — MR MILLER: X’ed. (Laughter.) Which is – which assistant secretary? QUESTION: O’Brien. MR MILLER: Oh, yeah. QUESTION: About the meeting between Secretary Blinken and Ambassador Pressman, and saying that they discussed – for a discussion at the key moment in the U.S.-Hungary relationship. I wonder if you could elaborate why is – why is it a key moment? MR MILLER: What I would say is that Ambassador Pressman was here in Washington – our ambassadors regularly come home for consultations – met with the Secretary as part of that meeting. And every time that the Secretary meets with an ambassador, obviously they’re discussing the ongoing bilateral relationships between the United States and the country where that ambassador serves. QUESTION: But so there’s no, like – any breakthrough or change, any – “key moment,” it sounds like – yeah. MR MILLER: Ryan, yeah. QUESTION: Thanks, Matt. Can you shed a little light on the timeline around the UNRWA decision? The Israeli Government has since shared that intelligence dossier with some members of the press. They said they shared the dossier, I believe, on – on that Friday. MR MILLER: On – that’s correct. QUESTION: The decision was also announced that Friday, the same day the court ruling came out. How – how was State able to – how were you able to make such a fast decision? MR MILLER: It’s a good question. So I think there has been some confusion about this. This matter was not first brought to us by the Government of Israel; it was brought to us by UNRWA itself. UNRWA brought this matter to the Government of the United States – the State Department – on Wednesday of last week and said that they had – were aware of allegations by the Government of Israel and they had conducted their own initial assessment and found those allegations to be credible and were taking disciplinary action against a number of people. So they contacted us on Wednesday. We spent Thursday looking into the matter. We contacted the Government of Israel on Thursday, engaged in initial consultations with them. We’re continuing to talk with the United Nations. The Secretary spoke to the secretary-general on Thursday. And then on Friday we announced that decision and were briefed by Israel. But I should make very clear our decision to temporarily pause funding was not just based on the strength of Israeli evidence, but it was based on UNRWA’s own conclusion that those allegations were credible. QUESTION: Was there any concern internally that releasing the announcement within about an hour or so of the ICJ court ruling, which – which one thing it did was instruct Israel to make sure that humanitarian aid was flowing – that it would – that announcing it so close together would seem like a repudiation in some ways? MR MILLER: No, I – there was no concern, but also the United Nations has – had made its announcement. And we thought it was important that – that given that the United Nations had made that announcement – and that’s not a – that’s not timing we control. They made that announcement Friday morning. We thought that it was important that we respond as quickly as possible to make clear the position the United States. It was in no way in our mind related to the ICJ decision. QUESTION: Matt, just tangentially related to the ICJ, there was a lawsuit that was brought in a California federal court against the President, the Secretary, and Secretary of Defense Austin. It was dismissed yesterday by the judge because of a – on jurisdictional grounds. But in his ruling dismissing the case, he said that there was – the ICJ’s ruling that there was plausible grounds to believe that genocide may be being committed was fair. He noted – I don’t know if “fair” is the right word, but that there was at least as – a case to be made in court. Do you have any comment about this lawsuit and the judge’s dismissal? MR MILLER: So I don’t have any comment on the lawsuit, and one thing that I learned in my time at the Justice Department is that it is unwise to comment on remarks or decisions by federal judges. And I’ll – so I won’t do that here. But I will say it remains our conclusion that the allegations of genocide are unfounded. Go ahead. QUESTION: One more follow-up on the previous questioning. MR MILLER: Follow-up on your follow-up? QUESTION: Yeah. MR MILLER: Your first one was a follow-up to somebody else. QUESTION: Yeah. So the message of this EO and these sanctions is to try to say that the Israelis need to take further action against the perpetrators of violence in the West Bank. If that’s the case, why would you sanction people Israel had already taken action against? Wouldn’t it have sent a stronger message to sanction those who had not yet been prosecuted? MR MILLER: So a few things. Number one, it is very much to send the message that we think more needs to be done by the Government of Israel; number two, that we will also take action on behalf of the United States, both against those who engage in settler violence and – extremist settler violence that have been prosecuted by governments and others who have not – there was one today who had – was not – part of that message is not just to the Government of Israel, but also to people who – themselves who might be considering engaging in acts of violence, to let them know that the United States Government is watching and will take action. And I also think you should not conclude that we are done with our action through our actions today. The executive order was just promulgated today, gives the State Department and the Treasury Department new sanctions authorities that we did not previously have. We will not hesitate to use those sanctions authorities if it’s appropriate to do so. Yeah. QUESTION: Could I go back to the – and it might be for your Justice Department – this was last week, but I don’t think it’s been addressed here. Alabama carried out an execution last week, which was criticized by the UN. The UN human rights commissioner is saying this might amount to torture. It’s nitrogen gas – he was supposedly thrashing on the floor for four minutes. I believe the White House commented on it. But on the international aspect, the EU condemned it, the United Nations. Is there a response that the State Department has? I realize the State Department isn’t carrying out executions. MR MILLER: I think as a – as that’s a domestic matter, I will absolutely defer to the White House and their comment on it. Go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you so much, Matt. I have only one question. As I found on your last press note on Bangladesh, the United States is interested in working with Bangladesh in various security areas. These areas include counterterrorism, border security, cyber security, maritime security, and regional stability. How is it possible to work in a larger context with the new government in Bangladesh without welcoming the prime minister? MR MILLER: So I would say that we have relationships of this sort all around the world. We expressed our concerns about the Bangladeshi election. We’ve expressed our concerns about crackdowns in Bangladesh, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t have the responsibility to work with the government – both on areas where we have concern and also areas where we believe we can cooperate on shared priorities. QUESTION: Can I ask about Myanmar? MR MILLER: Sure. QUESTION: You know that in Myanmar now, the junta and other party – this is a war zone. And more Rohingyas about to enter to Bangladesh, and also some military personnel with helicopters. Do you have any comments on the situation there? MR MILLER: On – with respect to that specific question, let me take it back. And then I’m going to go to the back of the room, and then we’ll wrap for today. QUESTION: Thanks, Matt. QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. QUESTION: Now, earlier today, we saw the readout about the certification – the certification notifying Congress of the possible drone deal between the U.S. and India. Can you sketch out the timeline or the next steps and how important this deal would be? MR MILLER: I cannot give you a timeline. This was the initial step today, notifying Congress. The exact timeline of the delivery is something that we will explore with the Government of India over the coming months. I will say with respect to the deal itself, the $3.99 – almost 4 – billion sale of 31 MQ-9B SkyGuardian aircraft will provide India with an enhanced maritime security and maritime domain awareness capability. It offers India outright ownership and a 16-fold increase in the number of aircraft, as compared to their current lease of two MQ-9A aircraft. And with that, we’ll wrap for today. Thanks, everyone. (The briefing was concluded at 2:47 p.m.) # # #   Tags Afghanistan Bangladesh China Georgia Haiti India Iraq Israel Kenya Mali Office of the Spokesperson Palestinian Territories Qatar Russia Ukraine

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Australian Foreign Minister Wong

02/01/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Australian Foreign Minister Wong 02/01/2024 09:10 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong today regarding their trips to the Middle East. Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Wong emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid reaching those in need in Gaza. The leaders also stressed the need to protect civilian lives in Gaza and called for Hamas to immediately release all hostages. The Secretary underscored the importance of protecting the flow of goods and holding the Houthis accountable for their reckless attacks on vessels in the Red Sea.

Joint Statement on Third U.S.-Suriname Strategic Dialogue

02/02/2024

Joint Statement on Third U.S.-Suriname Strategic Dialogue 02/02/2024 08:58 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Republic of Suriname on the occasion of the Third U.S.-Suriname Strategic Dialogue. Begin text: In the spirit of strengthening bilateral relations, the United States and Suriname held the Third Strategic Dialogue on January 31 in Washington, DC.  Senior officials from both countries explored ways to promote inclusive growth, foster innovation, combat climate change, and collaborate on capacity building and training.  The dialogue underscored the urgent need to address the climate crisis, accelerate the clean energy transition, promote sustainable development, foster economic resilience, and strengthen democracy.  In the area of security cooperation, the United States and Suriname support completing negotiations on the Air Intercept Assistance Agreement.  Both sides discussed other options to enhance information sharing, including through a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and a Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement. The United States supports Suriname’s efforts to address shared security challenges, including transnational organized crime, narcotics and human trafficking, money laundering, and corruption by enhancing the capacity of police and security services, including through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI).  The United States commends Suriname for its endorsement of the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection; both sides reaffirmed their commitment to promote safe, orderly, and humane migration in the Americas. We welcome Suriname to the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation, a White House priority launched in September 2023.  The Partnership is a platform for Atlantic coastal states to work together to address common challenges to realize interconnected goals of advancing a peaceful, stable, prosperous, open, safe, and cooperative Atlantic region, and promote a healthy, sustainable, and resilient Atlantic for generations to come. End text.

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Mudavadi

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Mudavadi 02/02/2024 09:13 AM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi to discuss the U.S.-Kenya bilateral relationship and security cooperation in the East Africa region.  Secretary Blinken thanked Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi for Kenya’s role in promoting peace and security and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to collaborating with Kenya as it leads the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti.  The Secretary affirmed the strong social and economic ties between the United States and Kenya and underscored the shared values that form a solid foundation for further partnership on global issues.

Designating Iranian Cyber Officials

02/02/2024

Designating Iranian Cyber Officials 02/02/2024 11:35 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States is today designating the head of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Cyber–Electronic Command (IRGC-CEC), an organization that has been responsible for a series of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure in the United States and other countries, and five of its senior officials. The United States is taking action against these individuals to respond to these harmful activities and IRGC-affiliated cyber actors’ recent cyber operations targeting programmable logic controllers (PLCs), in which actors used default credentials to display an anti-Israel message on the PLCs’ human-machine interface. Industrial control devices, such as PLCs, used in water and other critical infrastructure systems, are sensitive targets.  Although this particular operation fortunately did not disrupt any critical services, unauthorized access to critical infrastructure systems poses an elevated risk of harm to the public and can result in devastating humanitarian consequences. Cyber operations that intentionally damage or impair the operation of critical infrastructure are destabilizing and potentially escalatory.  Today’s action sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. The Department of the Treasury action was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13224, as amended.  For more information on this designation, see Treasury’s press release.

Imposing Sanctions on Those Supporting Iran’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and Missile Production

02/02/2024

Imposing Sanctions on Those Supporting Iran’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and Missile Production 02/02/2024 11:55 AM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States is imposing sanctions today on four entities operating as front companies and subsidiaries for U.S.-designated Hamed Dehghan and Pishtazan Kavosh Gostar Boshra (PKGB). These entities have supplied materials and sensitive technology for Iran’s ballistic missile and UAV programs, including Shahed-series UAVs being used by the Russian military against Ukraine. Iranian-made UAVs are used to commit acts of terror, including dozens of attacks by Iran- aligned militia groups on U.S. personnel that have resulted in the deaths of U.S. soldiers. Iran- backed Houthis have also launched attacks on commercial vessels and U.S. naval assets using Iranian-made UAVs and missiles. The United States is committed to utilizing all available means to expose and hold individuals and entities accountable for contributing to the Iranian regime’s proliferation, which directly harms U.S. personnel in the region and contributes to regional instability in the Middle East and Russia’s war against Ukraine. The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s actions were taken pursuant to the Executive Order 13382, which targets proliferations of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. For more information on today’s action, please see the Department of the Treasury’s press release.

Deputy Secretary Verma’s Engagements in Indonesia

02/02/2024

Deputy Secretary Verma’s Engagements in Indonesia 02/02/2024 12:37 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma met with Indonesian counterparts on February 1-2 in Jakarta, Indonesia, to further bilateral cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) announced by President Biden and President Widodo in November 2023 at the White House.  In a meeting with Indonesian Vice Foreign Minister Pahala Mansury, the two officials celebrated 75 years of bilateral relations and the conclusion of negotiations on a CSP Plan of Action to guide bilateral engagements over the next five years.  The Deputy Secretary and Vice Foreign Minister also discussed economic cooperation and regional and global issues, including the situation in the Middle East and importance of global health security.  Deputy Secretary Verma highlighted the U.S. commitment to ASEAN and ASEAN centrality. Separately, the Deputy Secretary and Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan discussed critical minerals cooperation and implementation of the Just Energy Transition Partnership, a landmark, long-term partnership that will mobilize over $20 billion in public and private financing to accelerate Indonesia’s clean-energy transition.   Deputy Secretary Verma and Deputy Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Dr. Edi Prio Pambudi discussed cooperation to build secure and resilient semiconductor supply chains, supporting Indonesia’s interest in joining the OECD, and shared initiatives under the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).  Deputy Secretary Verma thanked Indonesia for supporting our 2023 APEC host year. In addition to bilateral meetings with senior Indonesian officials, the Deputy Secretary and Permanent Representatives discussed the U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and how to support the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, including through the U.S. role as the region’s number one source of foreign direct investment.  The Deputy Secretary reaffirmed ASEAN centrality by emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea and thanked ASEAN members for continuing to press Burma’s military regime to implement the Five Point Consensus. While in Jakarta, Deputy Secretary Verma also led a public dialogue on the Indo-Pacific Strategy and expanded U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships with ASEAN and Indonesia at @america to an audience of Indonesian policy makers and youth.

Secretary Blinken’s Travel to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and the West Bank

02/02/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Travel to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and the West Bank 02/02/2024 02:42 PM EST Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson Secretary Antony Blinken will travel to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and the West Bank February 4-8, 2024, his fifth trip to the region since the October 7 terrorist attacks. The Secretary will continue diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement that secures the release of all remaining hostages and includes a humanitarian pause that will allow for sustained, increased delivery of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. He will continue work to prevent the spread of the conflict, while reaffirming that the United States will take appropriate steps to defend its personnel and the right to freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. The Secretary will also continue discussions with partners on how to establish a more integrated, peaceful region that includes lasting security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

Proliferation Security Initiative African Political Meeting and Outreach Event

02/02/2024

Proliferation Security Initiative African Political Meeting and Outreach Event 02/02/2024 03:20 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The United States and Morocco co-hosted the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) African Political Meeting and Outreach Event from January 31-February 2, 2024, in Marrakesh, Morocco.  The event realizes commitments both countries made at the PSI 20th Anniversary High-Level Political Meeting in May 2023 in Jeju, Republic of Korea to expand PSI outreach to non-endorsing countries, especially in Africa. At the meeting – the largest PSI event ever held on the African Continent – the United States, Morocco, and 11 other PSI-endorsing countries engaged 22 African countries that had not yet endorsed the PSI to explain the purpose and importance of the Initiative in countering the threats from the trafficking in weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and related items in the region.  Over three days, more than 150 civilian and military leaders from 35 governments examined modern WMD proliferation pathways, improved understanding of WMD interdiction obligations, explored legal frameworks and the best practices of partners, and enhanced the growth and connectivity of the counterproliferation community in Africa. At the meeting’s conclusion, Benin, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Togo, and Zambia had announced their endorsement of the PSI, bringing the total number of worldwide endorsers to 111.  Several other states declared their intention to endorse in the near future. The United States and Morocco encourage all states in the African region and beyond to endorse the PSI Statement of Interdiction Principles and participate in future PSI-related events. The now 111 states that have endorsed the PSI Statement of Interdiction Principles have committed to take effective measures to interdict WMD-related transfers consistent with national law and international obligations, adopt streamlined procedures for rapid information exchange, and strengthen relevant national and international laws and frameworks. The PSI was established in 2003 to stop or impede transfers of WMD, their delivery systems, and related materials flowing to and from states and non-state actors of proliferation concern.

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud

02/02/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud 02/02/2024 03:57 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.  The Secretary discussed his upcoming travel to the region and ongoing work to establish a more integrated, peaceful region that includes lasting security for Israelis and Palestinians alike. The Secretary reiterated the importance of securing a humanitarian pause that includes the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Joint Statement on the Proliferation Security Initiative African Political Meeting and Outreach Event Marrakesh Co-Chairs’ Summary

02/02/2024

Joint Statement on the Proliferation Security Initiative African Political Meeting and Outreach Event Marrakesh Co-Chairs’ Summary 02/02/2024 03:49 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The text of the following statement was released by the Government of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Government of the United States of America on the occasion of the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) African Political Meeting and Outreach event. Begin text: The Kingdom of Morocco and the United States of America co-hosted a Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) Africa Political Meeting and Outreach Event in Marrakesh, Morocco on January 31 – February 2, 2024. This meeting was co-chaired by the Director of the United Nations and International Organizations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Redouane Houssaini, and U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins. This meeting fulfilled a commitment made by Morocco at the PSI 20th Anniversary High-Level Political Meeting (HLPM) held in Jeju, Republic of Korea on May 30, 2023. The Marrakesh event featured senior representatives of 35 countries from the international community, including 25 African States and 10 countries from the PSI Operational Experts Group. Opening remarks were addressed by His Excellency Mr. Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, highlighting the pivotal role of the African dimension in international cooperation efforts to face the challenges posed by global security which should be given significant consideration within the framework of the PSI vision and commitment of Morocco to continue its support to the PSI and cooperate with the U.S. to encourage more African states to endorse this initiative. Under Secretary Jenkins also addressed the changing international security environment and new challenges to counterproliferation norms and activities. This event presented an opportunity for the PSI-endorsing states to reiterate their commitment to countering of the proliferation of WMDs, their delivery systems, and related materials, and to commit to further working together within the PSI in order to effectively address these issues. A large number of participants from African countries welcomed the meeting and showed interest in the Initiative and committed to report back and assess with all national stakeholders to consider endorsing the PSI. One of the primary objectives of the event was to underscore the significance of South-South cooperation as a focal point, showcasing how nations within this framework can leverage their unique strengths and resources to address common challenges. This meeting represented another opportunity to highlight the close strategic partnership between the United States and Morocco, within the strategic dialogue initiated in 2013, and accentuate the depth of this historic long-standing friendship while exploring ways to broaden its horizons towards a triangular cooperation, involving Africa, in matters of security. The PSI-endorsing states and participating states: Highlighted the benefits of PSI endorsement and provided an understanding of PSI frameworks and Critical Capabilities and Practices. Acknowledged the security challenges inherent in the current context, encompassing both Africa and the global landscape. Provided an overview of proliferation threats and trends, both globally and within Africa through briefings and panel presentations received by the attendees. Acknowledged the importance of the PSI as a voluntary mechanism and flexible framework, compliant with international law and mechanisms, to effectively address this threat. Explored the paramount significance of national capacity building and interdepartmental coordination in addressing complex challenges related to the detection and interception of nuclear and radiological materials. The new endorsers of the PSI:  Benin, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Togo, and Zambia, announced their formal endorsement of the PSI and the PSI Statement of Interdiction Principles. Recognizing the gravity of the global security landscape, underscored the imperative for collaborative efforts on an international scale. Demonstrated a shared commitment to fostering alliances, information-sharing, and coordinated actions to effectively address the complex challenges posed by the spread of WMDs. Next Steps: States that endorsed the PSI statement of Interdiction Principles at this meeting showed interest in participating in follow-up regional and sub-regional African events for new endorsers at a date and location to be determined. The co-chairs suggested establishing a plan of action (workshops, training, operational cooperation) that will allow the new endorsing countries to reinforce their national capabilities to counter the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. PSI-endorsing states committed to assisting new endorsers with additional training, education, and sharing best practices. Morocco and the United States will continue to work closely with participating states to promote PSI in Africa.

Assistant Secretary Nichols’ Travel to Argentina

02/02/2024

Assistant Secretary Nichols’ Travel to Argentina 02/02/2024 04:12 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian A. Nichols will travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina, from February 4 to 6.  Assistant Secretary Nichols will meet with senior government officials, including President Javier Milei, Foreign Minister Diana Mondino, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, and Economy Minister Luis Caputo, to discuss regional and global challenges, economic stabilization, and other areas of mutual interest. Assistant Secretary Nichols will also meet with private sector representatives to explore opportunities for new U.S. investments in Argentina that will enhance inclusive prosperity in both countries.  Lastly, the Assistant Secretary will meet with civil society, including union leaders, and U.S.-sponsored program alumni working to advance human rights in Argentina. For further information, please contact WHAPress@state.gov, and follow @WHAAsstSecty on Twitter.

Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to South Africa

02/02/2024

Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to South Africa 02/02/2024 05:06 PM EST HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to South Africa hide Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to South Africa Media Note February 2, 2024 Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez will travel to Cape Town, South Africa, February 4-7.  Under Secretary Fernandez will lead a delegation of U.S. government officials who will participate in the “Investing in African Mining Indaba.”  On February 5, the Under Secretary will speak on a panel discussing the security of critical minerals supply chains.  During his time in Cape Town, he will conduct a number of bilateral discussions with government and industry officials. As part of the U.S. government’s sustained, high-level engagement on critical minerals diplomacy, this trip will mark Under Secretary Fernandez’s third visit to South Africa to participate in this forum, with a particular focus on U.S. support for developing transparent, sustainable, and diverse supply chains for the critical minerals that underpin the clean energy transition.  For further media information, please contact E_Communications@state.gov. Tags Bureau of African Affairs Office of the Spokesperson Official International Travel South Africa Supply Chains Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment

Sri Lanka National Day

02/03/2024

Sri Lanka National Day 02/03/2024 06:00 PM EST Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Sri Lanka as they celebrate the 76th anniversary of their country’s independence on February 4. The robust partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka is built upon our shared values, commitment to democracy, and a collective vision for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region. Our relationship spans security cooperation, mutually beneficial trade and investment, as well as people-to-people ties nurtured by educational exchanges and scientific partnerships. In the coming year, as partners in the Indo-Pacific, we will further deepen our economic and maritime security ties and continue to address the climate crisis and other key areas of shared concern. On its national day, Sri Lanka’s celebration of its sovereignty and independence underscores the ongoing commitment to strengthening democratic governance and inclusive economic growth and building resilient institutions that deliver for all Sri Lankans. The United States stands by Sri Lanka as it works to build a more prosperous future for all of its citizens. I wish the Sri Lankan people prosperity and happiness as they celebrate this important occasion.

Secretary Blinken’s Call with former Kenyan President Kenyatta

02/03/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Call with former Kenyan President Kenyatta 02/03/2024 04:04 PM EST Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta about the escalating conflict in eastern DRC and the importance of the Nairobi Process in providing a pathway to reconciliation with armed groups. The Secretary emphasized the valuable role of regional leaders in assisting the DRC and Rwanda in implementing the confidence-building measures and other commitments made in their discussions with Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines and other senior U.S. officials. read more part 1:https://politikinewsaaa.blogspot.com/2024/02/us-department-of-state-update-part-1.html

This email was sent to politikimx@gmail.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: U.S. Department of State · 2201 C Street NW · Washington, DC 20520