JEDDAH: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell have embarked on a diplomatic tour in the Middle East to broker a ceasefire and prevent the Israel-Gaza conflict from spreading to the West Bank and Lebanon. The week-long tour includes visits to Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, and Greece.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of preventing the conflict from escalating beyond Gaza, stating that it is not in the interest of any party involved. The diplomatic efforts come nearly three months after Hamas militants from Gaza launched attacks on Israel, leading to a retaliatory offensive that has resulted in significant casualties and devastation in Gaza with over 22000 death including 9000 and over children and nearly eight thousand women.
During his visit, Blinken is expected to tour the West Bank, demonstrating the international community’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution. In Lebanon, Borrell discussed the situation at the Israeli border, where tensions have risen. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah reported numerous military operations conducted along the border with Israel.
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The conflict has witnessed intensified attacks, with Israeli planes and tanks targeting densely populated areas in Gaza, leading to a high number of casualties. Renewed shelling near Al-Amal hospital in Khan Younis has raised concerns about the humanitarian situation, as aid agencies face challenges in delivering much-needed assistance.
The war’s impact extends beyond Gaza, sparking violence in the occupied West Bank. A 17-year-old boy was recently killed, and several Palestinians were wounded in clashes with the Israeli army. The diplomatic efforts aim to bring about a ceasefire and address the broader implications of the conflict in the region.
