Antony Blinken Meets Saudi Prince to Pressure Hamas for Hostage Release
Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, recently engaged in a significant diplomatic meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh. The hour-long discussion revolved around the pressing issue of Hamas and the US's unwavering support for Israel during the ongoing conflict.
Held at the Crown Prince's farm residence in Riyadh, the meeting was described as “very productive” by Blinken. He reaffirmed the United States' commitment to standing by Israel in these challenging times, especially in the aftermath of a deadly attack by Hamas. The US Secretary of State emphasized the need to halt terrorist activities by Hamas, secure the release of all hostages, and prevent the conflict from escalating further.
Blinken addressed the media after the meeting, emphasizing Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas attacks and the importance of preventing such incidents in the future. He acknowledged the determination of the international community to contain the conflict, with countries utilizing their influence and relationships to promote peace and stability.
Both leaders expressed their dedication to safeguarding civilian populations and promoting stability in the Middle East and beyond. Crown Prince Mohammed highlighted Riyadh's ongoing diplomatic efforts to mitigate the crisis, including dialogues with regional leaders, notably Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, to seek a peaceful resolution.
Saudi Arabia reiterated its condemnation of attacks on civilians and vital interests, recognizing the impact on their daily lives. The Crown Prince also stressed the importance of Palestinians achieving their legitimate rights and establishing a just and lasting peace.
Simultaneously, the US State Department reported that the number of American casualties resulting from Hamas attacks in southern Israel had risen to 30, with 13 individuals still missing and feared kidnapped. The State Department offered its deepest condolences to the victims and their families.
Antony Blinken's regional tour, prompted by the incursion of Hamas into Israel from the blockaded Gaza Strip, led to significant loss of life, with the death toll nearing 3,000.
Prior to the conflict, Crown Prince Mohammed had expressed optimism about US-led diplomatic efforts to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. However, these efforts were temporarily halted due to the influence of the Hamas attack.
Saudi Arabia, as the guardian of Islam's two holiest sites, sought recognition for its historic cooperation with Israel and security guarantees from the United States, a long-standing partner and a major consumer of its oil.
Crown Prince Mohammed remains a contentious figure in the US, with allegations linking him to the 2018 killing and dismemberment of US-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Riyadh has consistently denied these accusations, attributing the incident to rogue operatives.
US President Joe Biden, who had previously promised to isolate Saudi Arabia, sparked controversy during his visit to the kingdom last year when he shared a friendly fist-bump with Crown Prince Mohammed.
The discussions between Blinken and the Crown Prince also extended to the situation in Yemen, where an uneasy peace endures between the Saudi-backed government and Iranian-backed Huthi rebels.
Additionally, they discussed ongoing mediation efforts in Sudan, where Saudi Arabia and the United States have collaborated to facilitate negotiations among warring factions, although progress has been limited.
Following the talks in Riyadh, Blinken's regional tour continues with a visit to Egypt, marking his sixth stop in the Arab world. The primary goal remains to exert pressure on Hamas and help contain the escalating conflict.
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