US diplomat Blinken meets Qatar’s PM
U.S. Secretary of State Blinken reiterates Washington’s support for a Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel in his meeting with Qatari prime minister
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, who also serves as the country’s foreign minister, as part of efforts to secure a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, in exchange for a hostage deal.
According to a statement from the U.S. State Department, Blinken thanked Sheikh Mohammed for Qatar’s coordination efforts, aimed at securing the release of hostages, protecting civilians, and facilitating critical humanitarian aid to Gaza through an urgent cease-fire agreement.
The statement highlighted discussions between the two leaders on planning a stable and secure future for the Palestinian people. Blinken reiterated the U.S. support for a Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel.
Calls for cease-fire
Before the meeting at the State Department, Blinken emphasized in a written statement that there is “an urgent opportunity for a cease-fire that can bring the hostages home, significantly increase humanitarian assistance to Palestinians, and at the same time, set conditions for a lasting solution.”
Blinken also stated that the U.S. will continue to pressure Israel to “use every available means” to ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza and reaches those in need. He added, “We want to see an end to the humanitarian suffering. We want to see the families of the hostages reunited.”
Why is it important?
The meeting between Blinken and Sheikh Mohammed comes amid ongoing efforts to broker a cease-fire and address the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Qatar proved itself effective before in brokering a cease-fire in Gaza.
This development reflects international diplomatic efforts to deescalate tensions in the region and work towards a peaceful resolution for all parties involved.
Since Oct. 7, Israel’s attacks on the Gaza Strip have resulted in the deaths of at least 30,631 Palestinians, including 13,430 children and 8,900 women. Additionally, 72,043 individuals have been reported injured.
Reports indicate that there are still thousands of bodies in the rubble, and civilian infrastructure is being destroyed, with hospitals and educational institutions, where people sought refuge, also being targeted.
Source: Newsroom
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