"Middle East Crisis: Blinken's Diplomatic Efforts Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict and US Strikes in the Region"

Israel awaits Hamas response to a proposed cease-fire plan and release of remaining hostages in Gaza, as Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken heads back to the region to rally support for the deal. The United States has retaliated against Iran-backed militias with strikes in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, following the killing of three U.S. soldiers in Jordan. Senate introduces a $118.3 billion compromise bill on migration, including security assistance for Israel and humanitarian aid for conflict zones. President Biden has ordered further retaliation, and top U.S. officials say more steps are planned, while the United Nations Security Council gathers to discuss the U.S. strikes.