US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Holds “Very Productive” Meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
In a critical diplomatic engagement, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had a “very productive” meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. This meeting took place as Israel prepared to launch a ground assault in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip and the United States worked to contain the conflict.
A Positive Outcome
When asked about the meeting, Blinken replied, “Very productive.” The meeting lasted for just under an hour and was held at the Crown Prince’s private farm residence.
The State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, stated, “The Secretary highlighted the United States’ unwavering focus on halting terrorist attacks by Hamas, securing the release of all hostages, and preventing the conflict from spreading.” Both leaders affirmed their commitment to protecting civilians and advancing stability in the Middle East and beyond.
Efforts to Prevent Escalation
Blinken’s meeting with the Saudi Crown Prince comes at a crucial time as Gaza braces for Israel’s ground offensive. Blinken has been on an extensive trip to the Middle East, working closely with Arab allies to prevent the war from spiraling into a wider conflict and aiding in the release of hostages held by Hamas militants.
Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in retaliation for the recent attack on Israeli towns, where militants shot men, women, and children and took hostages. Iran has warned of “far-reaching consequences” if Israel’s bombardment continues, while Israel has cautioned Hezbollah in Lebanon against starting a war on a second front.
A Regional Tour
Blinken’s Middle East tour began in Israel, where he expressed robust US support for the country in its fight against Hamas. He then visited Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. Blinken also made a brief stop in the United Arab Emirates before returning to Riyadh for the meeting with the Crown Prince. He is expected to travel to Egypt later on Sunday.
The Human Toll
Gaza authorities report that over 2,300 people, including a quarter of them children, have been killed in the conflict, with nearly 10,000 wounded. Rescue workers are desperately searching for survivors amidst ongoing air raids. Approximately one million people have reportedly fled their homes.
During his meeting with the Saudi Foreign Minister, Blinken emphasized the importance of protecting civilians on both sides of the conflict. He stated, “We’re working together to do exactly that, especially by establishing safe areas in Gaza and creating corridors for humanitarian assistance to reach those in need.”
