The recent Middle East tour of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken included meetings with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The US Department of State stated that Blinken reiterated the call for a truce in the war on Gaza and support for a two-state solution during these meetings.
During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Blinken emphasized the importance of addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to achieving a lasting solution for the crisis in Gaza and the establishment of a future Palestinian state. In Cairo, Blinken discussed negotiations for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages with President el-Sisi.
Despite concerns of an imminent famine in Gaza due to Israel’s blockade, the Biden administration has continued its financial and diplomatic support for Israel. The administration has worked towards securing a pause in hostilities to allow for the release of captives and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
Blinken is expected to conclude his trip in Israel, where discussions on greater integration among countries in the region, including Saudi Arabia, were held. However, complications arise in the push for official ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Saudi Arabia has made it clear that diplomatic relations with Israel will only be considered when an independent Palestinian state is recognized.