During a diplomatic tour in the Middle East, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken began his journey in Saudi Arabia. He landed in Riyadh early in the day and planned to meet with senior Saudi officials and foreign ministers from Arab and Persian Gulf countries who were gathered for an economic forum. The purpose of Blinken’s visit to Saudi Arabia is to promote a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip and work towards lasting peace and security in the region.

According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken’s objectives include addressing key issues such as the release of hostages kidnapped by Hamas and preventing the spread of conflict. The visit comes after a phone call between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding a planned Israeli military offensive in Rafah. Washington has emphasized the need to protect displaced Palestinians in Rafah and has warned against a military operation that does not provide adequate care for civilians.

Israel launched its offensive in Gaza following attacks by Hamas, resulting in casualties on both sides. Hamas has demanded a ceasefire, the withdrawal of troops from the enclave, and a plan for reconstruction in exchange for releasing kidnapped individuals. Israel has threatened to launch an offensive if there is no agreement from Hamas. Overall, Blinken’s visit to the region aims to address ongoing tensions and work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.