Blinken returns to Israel after tour of Arab allies

 


Blinken's second visit to Israel comes as the Israeli military prepares for a ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza  Image: Jacquelyn Martin/REUTERS

Oct 16, 2023. Posted by  Balkan Periscope - Hellas

Tel Aviv.


US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has returned to Israel on Monday, after he held discussions in six Arab countries.  

Blinken earlier visited Israel last Thursday, following Hamas's terror attacks on October 7. During that visit, Blinken expressed solidarity with Israel and met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.  

Over the past few days, Blinken has been to Jordan, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, seeking to prevent a broader spillover of the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East. 

Blinken will again meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, along with Netanyahu's security cabinet. Blinken said on Sunday that he would use the second visit in Israel to convey what he heard from US Arab partners in the region. 

Blinken's return comes amid reports that US President Joe Biden is weighing a visit to Israel. The White House has not officially confirmed that decision. 

Biden on Monday canceled a planned visit to Colorado, adding to speculation that a trip might be in the works.

DW

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