U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken attended a crucial meeting with Middle East foreign ministers in Jordan to address the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. With tensions escalating, Arab nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Egypt, and Jordan highlighted the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the affected areas.
Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati emphasized the importance of working towards a ceasefire in Gaza and putting an end to Israeli aggression in southern Lebanon. The recent retaliation by Israel against Hamas-controlled Gaza, following a raid by Hamas militants on October 7, has resulted in a distressing increase in civilian casualties and dire humanitarian conditions.
During the meeting, Secretary Blinken showcased the U.S.’s unwavering determination to prevent further escalation of the conflict and called on Israel to prioritize the protection of civilians in Gaza. Jordan’s King Abdullah echoed these sentiments, urging the international community to prioritize an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. He also advocated for revived negotiations on an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, which have been stagnant for nearly a decade.
Highlighting their concerns about a potential wider conflict, Jordan requested the deployment of Patriot air defense systems from the U.S. King Abdullah expressed worry that the ongoing Gaza war could lead to additional displacement of Palestinians to Jordan. It is important to note that Jordan already accommodates a significant population of Palestinians displaced during the creation of Israel in 1948.
As the conflict intensifies, global attention and swift action are necessary to prevent further loss of life and to address the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. The international community must come together to support the efforts for a lasting ceasefire and to resume meaningful negotiations towards a peaceful resolution, including a viable two-state solution.
