Blinken's Diplomatic Mission: Gaza, Israel, and Jordan

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is returning to the Middle East to address the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Blinken will push for the evacuation of foreigners from Gaza, more humanitarian aid for the territory, and urge Israel to rein in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. While calling for brief pauses in airstrikes and fighting for humanitarian purposes, Blinken will oppose calls for a broader ceasefire. He will also emphasize the need to consider a post-conflict Gaza and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The US is aware of the risk of severe damage to ties with the Arab world if it fails to use its influence to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.