Blinken Heading To Israel To Press Gaza Truce

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit Israel on Saturday, August 17, to advance efforts towards securing a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, as well as facilitating the release of hostages from Gaza.

During his visit, Blinken will emphasise the critical need for all parties in the region to avoid escalation.

"Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will travel to Israel on August 17 to continue intensive diplomatic efforts to finalise the agreement for a ceasefire and the release of hostages and detainees, through the bridging proposal presented today by the United States, with support from Egypt and Qatar," said Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, Vedant Patel, in a press statement on Friday.