LIVE UPDATES
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to commence his fourth visit to the Middle East since the Israel-Hamas conflict, with expectations of challenging discussions. The focus of his trip includes advocating for immediate aid to the beleaguered Gaza Strip and pushing for de-escalation measures in the region.
Blinken's itinerary spans visits to Israel, the West Bank (home to the Palestinian Authority), and five Arab nations—Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—according to the State Department.
Departing late Thursday, Blinken's first stops will be in Turkey, a complex ally with significant ties to Hamas leaders despite being among the few Muslim-majority nations recognizing Israel. Subsequently, he will visit Greece, marking a comprehensive tour aimed at addressing critical issues in the Middle East.
As the region grapples with ongoing challenges, including post-conflict recovery in Gaza and broader geopolitical dynamics, Blinken's diplomatic efforts underscore the United States' commitment to fostering stability and dialogue in the Middle East. The complexity of the issues at hand necessitates nuanced discussions with a range of stakeholders, and Blinken's visit signifies a continued diplomatic engagement in the pursuit of lasting solutions.
Secretary of State Blinken Embarks on Fourth Middle East Trip, Seeking Aid for Gaza and Regional De-escalation
