Middle East

Blinken to head to Israel this weekend to press Gaza truce

Biden and the two key Arab leaders had publicly urged Hamas and Israel to join the talks.

The White House earlier said diplomats will keep working on details with a hope to conclude the accord later next week in Cairo.

“This proposal would achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, secure the release of all hostages, ensure humanitarian assistance is distributed throughout Gaza and create the conditions for broader regional stability,” the State Department statement said.

“Secretary Blinken will underscore the critical need for all parties in the region to avoid escalation or any other actions that could undermine the ability to finalize an agreement,” it said.

It will be the ninth trip by Blinken to the Middle East since Hamas on October 7 carried out the deadliest-ever attack on Israel, which has responded with a relentless military campaign in Gaza

The State Department did not immediately announce any stops after Israel. Blinken has met with key Arab allies on previous trips.

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