The Los Angeles Post

Secretary Blinken Discusses Gaza Ceasefire and Regional Stability with Saudi Foreign Minister

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July 3, 2024

Today, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a significant conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. According to State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller, their discussion primarily focused on ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to facilitate the release of hostages and ensure a substantial and sustained increase in humanitarian aid, along with improved access for humanitarian efforts throughout the region.

Key Points of Discussion

Gaza Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid:

  • Ceasefire Efforts: Secretary Blinken and Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of reaching a ceasefire agreement that includes the release of hostages held in Gaza.
  • Humanitarian Assistance: They discussed strategies to significantly enhance humanitarian aid and ensure better access for aid organizations throughout Gaza.
  • Post-Conflict Governance: The leaders continued their dialogue on establishing effective governance, security, and reconstruction measures in Gaza post-conflict to build lasting peace and stability.

Regional Stability and Integration:

  • Northern Israel Tensions: Both parties addressed efforts to deescalate tensions along Israel’s northern border, emphasizing the need for regional stability.
  • Conflict in Sudan: Secretary Blinken and Prince Faisal also explored ways to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
  • Greater Regional Integration: Steps to further integrate the region, promoting broader cooperation and stability, were also a focal point of their conversation.

Secretary Blinken expressed strong condemnation of the Houthi’s attacks on international shipping and their detention of at least 50 Yemeni employees working for UN agencies, Member State diplomatic missions, private companies, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations. He stressed the urgent need for their immediate release, highlighting that such detentions directly impede the ability of organizations to provide essential humanitarian aid.

The call underscores the continued collaboration between the United States and Saudi Arabia in addressing critical issues in the Middle East. Both nations remain committed to pursuing diplomatic solutions that promote peace, security, and stability across the region. Secretary Blinken reiterated the U.S. commitment to working with Saudi Arabia and other partners to address these pressing challenges and support humanitarian efforts where they are most needed.