The meeting comes as the Israeli military prepares for an offensive into the Gaza Strip, in response to an unprecedented Hamas offensive on its territory.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Photo: Reuters
Mr Blinken's visit to regional allies is aimed at preventing the war between Israel and Hamas from escalating into a wider conflict, and helping secure the release of hostages held by the Islamist group.
Mr Blinken began a trip on Thursday in Israel, expressing US support for Washington's closest ally in the Middle East in its fight against Hamas.
The US Secretary of State then visited Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, meeting with leaders and senior officials to discuss the situation in the region, especially the conflict between Israel and Hamas. After the meeting, he is expected to travel to Egypt, which has the only border crossing with the Gaza Strip but is currently closed.
Separately, Iran has warned of “far-reaching consequences” if Israeli bombardment is not stopped. Iran’s mission to the United Nations has also said it would be forced to intervene if Israel launches a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip.
Hoang Nam (according to Reuters)
Source
Comment (0)