State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to reiterate U.S. support for Israel’s right to defend itself from Hamas’ terrorism. Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to provide Israel with the assistance it needs to protect its citizens. The Secretary and President Herzog discussed the coordination underway to focus on the safety and protection of civilians placed in harm’s way by Hamas and efforts to secure the swift and safe release of hostages.