US Secretary of State Antony Blinken landed in Israel Tuesday, October 22, 2024, marking his 11th visit since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, 2023. The visit aims to revive stalled ceasefire talks following the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.
During his meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Blinken will also address humanitarian aid to Gaza and Israel’s potential retaliation against Iran. After Israel, Blinken will travel to Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
Blinken is expected to caution Israeli leaders about the risks of regional escalation if Israel follows through with planned strikes on Iran. In parallel, Iran’s foreign minister has been meeting with Gulf countries, securing assurances that their territory will not be used for attacks on Iran.
Blinken’s visit also comes amid rising conflict on Israel’s northern front. Hezbollah recently launched a rocket barrage into Israel, escalating tensions in Lebanon. The US is seeking diplomatic solutions through its special envoy Amos Hochstein, who is engaging with Lebanese officials to de-escalate the conflict.
