US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt this week in a crucial diplomatic effort aimed at securing a cease-fire in Gaza, facilitating the release of hostages held by Hamas since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, and enhancing humanitarian aid to the beleaguered Palestinian territory. This announcement was made by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during Blinken’s current tour in the Philippines.
Blinken’s discussions with Saudi leaders in Jeddah are scheduled for Wednesday, followed by talks with Egyptian authorities in Cairo on Thursday. This visit marks Blinken’s sixth journey to the Middle East since the commencement of the Gaza conflict, initiated by a severe assault by Hamas. Miller outlined the objectives of Blinken’s mission, stating that the Secretary would engage in dialogues aimed at establishing an immediate cease-fire that ensures the release of all hostages.
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The talks will also focus on intensifying international efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza and formulating post-conflict strategies to prevent Hamas from governing or replicating the October 7 attacks. Furthermore, discussions will explore a political pathway for the Palestinian people, including security assurances with Israel. Blinken has voiced his intention to debate the “right architecture for lasting regional peace,” reiterating the necessity for Israel to devise a plan for Gaza’s future post-conflict, consistent with its defensive needs and the prevention of future assaults.
In the backdrop of ongoing negotiations for a cease-fire, Israeli representatives have initiated talks with Hamas in Qatar, aiming to secure a truce and the release of hostages. Despite Israel’s agreement to a six-week truce and partial troop withdrawal, Hamas has demanded a permanent cease-fire and the release of numerous Palestinian prisoners, conditions Israel finds unacceptable. The negotiations are said to be in their final stages, with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan acknowledging the challenges in reaching an agreement but emphasizing the potential for immediate resolution if Hamas agrees to release specific groups of hostages.