United States – The US State Department reported that Secretary Anthony Blinken discussed with his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, efforts to end the war in the Gaza Strip and the need to reach a diplomatic solution that would put an end to the war in Lebanon.
The US State Department said that Blinken also discussed with Baerbock efforts to increase humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
Reuters also reported that Blinken also spoke yesterday, Friday, with his counterpart, the Saudi Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the Emirati, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as part of the efforts of the administration of President Joe Biden, whose term is about to expire, in its diplomatic efforts to reach agreements to end the war it is waging. Israel over the Gaza Strip and Lebanon.
White House spokesman Matthew Miller said that Blinken stressed in his calls yesterday, Friday, the US administration’s desire to reach a ceasefire in Gaza as soon as possible and resolve the conflict between Israel and the armed factions in Lebanon diplomatically, in addition to discussing the conflict in Sudan.
Miller added that Blinken discussed in his call with the Saudi Foreign Minister “efforts to reach the release of the hostages and chart a path that allows the Palestinians in Gaza to rebuild their lives and enhance governance, security and reconstruction.”
Miller also said that Blinken discussed with the UAE Foreign Minister “efforts to reach a diplomatic solution in Lebanon that allows civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to return to their homes.”
The US State Department confirmed the day before yesterday, Thursday, that the Biden administration will make a final effort to reach agreements to end the war, but it is not clear how much influence it has over Israel and other actors in the region, whose attention is now turning to the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.
Blinken has made 11 tours in the Middle East since the outbreak of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip in October 2023, in order to reach an agreement leading to stopping the war and releasing Israelis detained by the Palestinian resistance in Gaza, but his efforts were not crowned with success.
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, International Relations Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. The recent discussions between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have put a spotlight on the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. What do you think are the implications of these diplomatic efforts?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. The discussions signal a critical push towards a multilateral approach to resolving these conflicts. The involvement of both the United States and Germany showcases a united front in seeking not only to end the hostilities but also to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This is essential, as any lasting peace will require engagement from multiple parties involved in the region.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of humanitarian aid, can you elaborate on the potential impact of increasing aid to the Gaza Strip?
**Dr. Carter:** Increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza is vital at this juncture. The region has faced significant devastation, and aid can alleviate some of the immediate suffering. However, it’s essential that this aid is coupled with diplomatic efforts that encourage access and delivery. Without a stable political solution, aid alone may not suffice to create sustainable peace or rebuild the region.
**Interviewer:** Blinken also spoke with Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and UAE’s Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. How critical are these relationships to the diplomatic efforts in the Middle East?
**Dr. Carter:** Very critical. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are influential players in the region, and their involvement can greatly enhance the chances of a comprehensive peace process. Their perspectives and interests must be aligned with those of the U.S. and Europe. By fostering these relationships, the U.S. can leverage their influence to encourage cooperation among other Middle Eastern nations to stabilize the situation.
**Interviewer:** in your opinion, what should the next steps be for the U.S. and its allies in their quest for peace in these troubled areas?
**Dr. Carter:** Beyond the immediate humanitarian efforts, sustained diplomatic engagement is crucial. This includes convening multilateral talks that involve a wide range of stakeholders, including local leaders and other regional powers. There needs to be a clear framework for peace that addresses not just the ceasefire but also the underlying issues that fuel these conflicts. Building trust will be key, and that takes time and persistent effort.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insightful analysis on this pressing issue.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me.
