Diplomatic Endeavors: Blinken Engages with Jordanian and Qatari Leaders to Curb Escalation of Violence in Gaza

DOHA, Qatar (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarked on another critical diplomatic mission to the Middle East, aiming to address mounting concerns of the potential spillover of violence from Israel's three-month conflict with Hamas in Gaza. In talks with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Jordan's King Abdullah II, Blinken emphasized the necessity for Israel to recalibrate its military operations, minimizing civilian casualties, and substantially increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza. The discussions also underscored the importance of crafting comprehensive plans for the post-conflict future of the devastated Palestinian territory.

This marks Blinken's fourth visit to the region since the commencement of the war. Following discussions with Turkish and Greek leaders in Istanbul and Crete, Blinken engaged with Jordanian officials, including King Abdullah II and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi in Amman, before heading to Doha. The objective in Qatar was to secure support from Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for U.S. initiatives to contain the escalation of the conflict, enhance aid to Gaza, and lay the groundwork for an eventual resolution.

During the talks, King Abdullah expressed deep concern about the devastating consequences of the Gaza war and urged the U.S. to advocate for an immediate cease-fire, emphasizing the potentially catastrophic repercussions. Blinken and the monarch affirmed their commitment to closely coordinate efforts to provide sustained humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Arab states, including Jordan, have strongly criticized Israel's actions and refrained from openly supporting long-term pl

The ongoing efforts to gather and distribute essential food to those in need are crucial," stated Secretary of State Antony Blinken. "Since day one, the United States has been working tirelessly to open and expand access routes into Gaza. Our commitment is to not only open these routes but to multiply and maximize them, aiming to deliver assistance more effectively. We are resolute in doing everything within our power to improve the situation for the men, women, and children in Gaza.

For weeks, the U.S. has been urging Israel to allow increased quantities of food, water, fuel, medicine, and other supplies into Gaza. A resolution from the U.N. Security Council on December 22 also called for an immediate boost in deliveries. While Israel recently opened Kerem Shalom as a second entry point for aid, the rate of truck entries has not significantly risen. Approximately 120 trucks a day entered through Rafah and Kerem Shalom this week, far below the pre-war daily average of 500 trucks, and below the deemed necessary amount by aid groups.

Gaza's population, heavily dependent on these trucks, faces severe challenges. One in four Palestinians in Gaza is experiencing starvation, while the rest are dealing with crisis levels of hunger, according to the U.N. Over 85% of Gaza's residents have been displaced by Israeli actions, living in overcrowded U.N. shelters, makeshift tent camps, or on the streets.

In Greece, Blinken acknowledged that his diplomatic mission involves challenging conversations with allies and partners about their contributions to building lasting peace and securit

Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined his priorities, emphasizing the need to protect civilians due to the significant number of Palestinian casualties. He highlighted the urgency of increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza, preventing future attacks by Hamas, and establishing a framework for Palestinian-led governance, aiming for a Palestinian state with security assurances or coexistence with Israel.

Before Blinken's meetings, Hezbollah, supported by Iran, fired numerous rockets at northern Israel in response to the targeted killing of a top Hamas leader in Lebanon. This intensified cross-border conflict added strain to an already complex situation. Simultaneously, increased attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea by Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, disrupted international trade. The U.S. and its allies are now patrolling the Red Sea, issuing a final warning to the Houthis to cease their attacks or face potential military action.

The geopolitical landscape is rapidly evolving, with Blinken navigating multiple crises, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, Hezbollah's involvement, and the Red Sea shipping disruptions. The U.S. and its allies are working to address these challenges and maintain stability in the region.

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