In Amane, A. Blinken will meet with the long-time partner of the United States, King Abdullah II of Jordan and Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas. The US Secretary of State is later scheduled to visit Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.
On Thursday, A. Blinken visited Tel Aviv, where after the unexpected attack by Hamas, during which more than 1.2 thousand people were killed. Israelis and about 150 more were taken hostage, pledged unequivocal solidarity with US ally Israel.
Washington publicly supports Israel’s countermeasures against Hamas. On Friday, Israel called for 1.1 million people to leave the blockaded north of the Gaza Strip.
More than 1,500 people were killed in the Gaza Strip during Israel’s retaliatory strikes. people. Israel cut off the supply of food, water and electricity to this Palestinian enclave.
Qatar, which Mr. Blinken will travel to immediately after his visit to Jordan, has long had ties to Hamas and is seen as an intermediary in the release of the hostages.
“We will continue to press countries to help prevent the spread of the conflict and use their influence on Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release the hostages,” Blinken said late Thursday in Tel Aviv.
“We will also discuss how we can further realize our positive vision of a more peaceful, prosperous, secure and integrated region,” he added.
In the weeks before the Hamas attacks, Saudi Arabia touted the progress of US-led diplomacy in normalizing relations with Israel. It was a very important step for Riyadh.
Few expect the trend to continue, with Saudi Arabia, along with Qatar, blaming Israel’s policies towards the Palestinians for the outbreak of violence.
US officials are working with Egypt, which also borders the Gaza Strip and was the first Arab country to sign a peace treaty with Israel last century, on a plan for a security corridor from the Gaza Strip.
A. Blinken stated that he spoke with Israel “about the possibility of safe passage for civilians who want to leave or leave the Gaza Strip.”
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#Blinken #begins #visit #Arab #countries #increase #pressure #Hamas
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Middle Eastern Affairs Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Thompson. As the United States continues its diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, including A. Blinken’s upcoming meetings with key leaders in Jordan and Palestine, what’s the significance of these discussions?
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me. The meetings between Secretary of State Antony Blinken, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and President Mahmud Abbas are crucial at this moment. They not only reflect America’s support for its longstanding allies but also aim to address the escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Jordan’s stability is vital as it hosts a large number of Palestinian refugees, and President Abbas represents the Palestinian Authority, which plays a critical role in any potential peace negotiations.
**Interviewer:** Following the recent and tragic events in Israel and Gaza, what do you think Blinken aims to achieve during his visits to Qatar and Saudi Arabia?
**Dr. Thompson:** Blinken’s trip to Qatar is particularly interesting given Qatar’s unique relationship with Hamas. Qatar has acted as an intermediary in past conflicts and holds significant influence over the group. The U.S. will likely seek Qatar’s help in securing the release of hostages and alleviating the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Additionally, strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE could foster broader regional support for a resolution to the conflict, as these countries play influential roles in the Arab world.
**Interviewer:** The situation on the ground continues to worsen, especially in Gaza, where casualties are rising and basic supplies have been cut off. How should the international community respond?
**Dr. Thompson:** The international community must push for an immediate ceasefire and provide humanitarian aid to those affected in Gaza. It’s vital for countries to advocate for the protection of civilians and ensure that supplies of food, water, and medical aid can get through. There should also be emphasis on a long-term solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict. This means not only supporting Israel’s right to defend itself but also recognizing the humanitarian plight of the Palestinians.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what role do you think U.S. diplomacy will play in shaping the post-conflict landscape in the region?
**Dr. Thompson:** U.S. diplomacy will be pivotal. The U.S. has the leverage to engage Israel and its Arab neighbors in dialogue around a sustainable peace framework. Secretary Blinken’s ongoing engagement with these leaders demonstrates a commitment to not just managing the current crisis but also envisioning a pathway forward. However, success will depend heavily on the willingness of all parties to come to the negotiating table and find common ground. The road ahead is challenging, but diplomatic efforts are essential for any hope of lasting peace.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your insights on this complex situation.
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me.
