Washington, 9 March 2024 (TDI): Secretary Blinken engaged in diplomatic talks with the Foreign Minister of Egypt and Saudi Arabia on March 8th for the Gaza ceasefire for 6 weeks, immediate release of hostages, and an effort to boost humanitarian assistance.
Secretary Blinken made five visits to the Middle East following the Gaza-Israel conflict in February, and he is currently engaging in diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
Secretary Blinken, Saudi Foreign Minister discuss Gaza ceasefire
US Spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “Secretary Blinken spoke with Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and discussed efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza for a period of at least six weeks as part of a deal that would release hostages held by Hamas and surge humanitarian assistance”.
.@SecBlinken Spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince @FaisalbinFarhan and discussed efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza for a period of at least six weeks as part of a deal that would release hostages held by Hamas and surge humanitarian assistance.
— Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) March 8, 2024
Moreover, Blinken discussed committing an alignment with regional and international companions to promote peace in the Holy month of Ramadan. And prepare for the post-war stage.
Additionally, “Both counterparts highlighted a continued partnership with the international community to protect Freedom of Navigation in the Red Sea”.
At last, the Secretary and Foreign Minister also discussed the significance of ending the dispute in Sudan and working for civilian protection.
Secretary Blinken Spoke with Egypt’s Foreign Minister
“Secretary Blinken spoke with Foreign Minister Shoukry about urgent efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a surge in humanitarian assistance in Gaza,” Spokesperson Miller said.
.@SecBlinken spoke with Egyptian Foreign Minister Shoukry about urgent efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a surge in humanitarian assistance in Gaza.
— Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) March 9, 2024
Egypt Spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid said, “Foreign Minister received a call from Secretary Blinken. Both discussed joint efforts to enforce a truce leading to a ceasefire, detainees swap, as well as the necessity of sustaining full aid delivery to the Gaza strip”.
Secretary Blinken and the Foreign Minister discussed the importance of regional and international cooperation to maintain peace and stability for 6 weeks in the Holy month of Ramadan and plan for post-conflict phase.
Also Read: Saudi King urges international community to halt brutal crimes in Gaza
Additionally, Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Sameh Hassan Shoukry committed to maintaining stability in Sudan to end this year’s lasting conflict. And urged the community to work for the protection of civilians.
At last, both discussed the Red Sea emerging tension which caused economic instability in the region and Europe. And urged the international community to protect the Freedom of the Red Sea.