Blinken visits Saudi Arabia to discuss ceasefire efforts

The State Department announced Saturday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit Saudi Arabia next week to discuss ceasefire efforts.

Blinken's visit on Monday came as Egypt, Qatar, Israel and Hamas have failed to reach a ceasefire and release hostages, citing differing demands.

Apart from discussing the ceasefire in Gaza, Blinken is expected to speak about the “importance” of increased humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza and that it is “sustained.”

“The Secretary will discuss continued efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of hostages and where Hamas stands between the Palestinian people and the ceasefire,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement Saturday. That's the plan,” he said. “He will discuss the recent increase in humanitarian assistance being provided to Gaza and stress the importance of ensuring that the increase is sustained.

“The Secretary also emphasized the importance of preventing escalation of the conflict and continued efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the region, including a path to an independent Palestinian state with guaranteed security for Israel. We'll also talk about it,” Miller said.

U.S. authorities are calling for the release of about 40 of the more than 100 Hamas hostages they are holding as part of a six-week ceasefire, as well as the release of Palestinian prisoners.

“The Secretary will participate in Gulf Cooperation Council ministerial meetings to advance regional security coordination,” Miller said.

At the World Economic Forum's Special Conference on Energy for Global Cooperation, Growth and Development, the Secretary will coordinate with partners to ensure continued progress in climate change mitigation and the global energy transition. ”

Blinken previously met with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in March to discuss the need to increase the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza.