Washington DC, 06 January 2024 (TDI): The US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken is on his fifth trip to the Middle East since the October 7th attack of Hamas in Israel. The Secretary’s trip commenced on February 4th and will continue until February 8th. The trip includes Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Israel, and the West Bank.
The US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller wrote, “The Secretary will continue diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement that secures the release of all remaining hostages and includes a humanitarian pause.”
The US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken wrote that he is returning to the fifth trip to the Middle East to continue working with partners on achieving durable peace in the region, with lasting security for the Israelis and Palestinians alike.
Moreover, the Secretary will secure the release of all remaining hostages. In addition, reaffirms the US will take appropriate steps to defend its personnel and the right of freedom in navigation in the Red Sea.
Also Read: US, Middle East Leaders talks on Gaza hostage deal
Furthermore, Secretary Blinken met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on February 5th. He said, “The discussion revolves around increasing urgent humanitarian aid and to ensure it gets to those that need it in Gaza.
The US and Saudi Arabia will engage in diplomacy in the Middle East to prevent the further spread of the conflict, he added.
The US National Security Advisor to the White House Jake Sullivan on Sunday said that the US helped to unlock and get into the Gaza Strip. He assured that the US aims to make sure that more humanitarian aid reaches civilians in Gaza.
Lastly, despite the recent attacks between US and Iranian-backed forces, the US continues the de-escalation of the conflict.
Recently, an Iranian-backed militia in Iraq took responsibility for an attack on a Syrian base that killed US-backed Kurdish fighters.
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