The State Department announced that Secretary of State Antony Blinken will embark on a trip to Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia this week to engage with regional partners as negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain at an impasse.
Blinken's visit aims to address the ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, focusing on the release of hostages and highlighting Hamas' role in obstructing peace for the Palestinian people.
The State Department emphasized the importance of preventing the conflict from escalating further and discussed strategies for achieving lasting peace and security in the region, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with security assurances for Israel.
During his trip, Blinken will also discuss the recent increase in humanitarian aid being provided to Gaza and stress the necessity of sustaining this support.
Despite extensive mediation by Qatar and Egypt over several months, Hamas and Israel have been unable to reach an agreement on a deal that would lead to the release of hostages and the implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza.
Blinken's upcoming visit follows his recent meeting with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, where they discussed efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
In a recent interview, Blinken expressed optimism about the potential for a framework for normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, alongside a proposal for a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians, even before a ceasefire is achieved.
He emphasized the need for an end to the conflict in Gaza and a resolution to the Palestinian question as crucial steps towards realizing these possibilities.
