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Highlights from Blinken’s UAE and Saudi trip to curb spread of Israel-Hamas conflict

 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on his fourth trip to the Middle East since the Israel-Hamas conflict began on October 7. He will travel to Turkey, Greece, Jordan, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, the West Bank, and Egypt from January 4–11. Blinken will focus on protecting civilians, securing the release of hostages, increasing relief supplies, and ensuring Palestinians are not forcibly displaced from the territory. He will discuss urgent mechanisms to stem violence and reduce regional tensions, including deterring Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and avoiding escalation in Lebanon. The US will reaffirm its commitment to working with partners to set the conditions necessary for peace in the region, including comprehensive steps towards the realization of a future Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Blinken and Emirati and Saudi officials held notable discussions on Monday before heading to Israel. He and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed discussed efforts to prevent the conflict from expanding. The State Department stressed the US commitment to securing lasting regional peace that ensures Israel’s security and advances the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant outlined the country’s strategies for the next stage of its military operations in Gaza, including a more targeted strategy in northern Gaza and a continued pursuit of Hamas leaders in the south.

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