Secretary of State Antony Blinken vowed on a visit Thursday that the United States will “always” back Israel but said the Palestinians also had “legitimate aspirations” not represented by militant group Hamas.

“You may be strong enough on your own to defend yourself. But as long as America exists, you will never, ever have to. We will always be there by your side,” Blinken said during a meeting with Prime Minister enjamin Netanyahu as war raged between Israel and Hamas.