US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held crucial talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan on Saturday, focused on the escalating Israel-Gaza crisis.
During the meeting, Prince Faisal Bin Farhan unequivocally denounced attacks on civilians on both sides of the conflict and emphasized the critical need for de-escalation. He expressed deep concern for the civilian populations impacted by the violence, emphasizing the universal condemnation of targeting civilians under any circumstances.
Furthermore, he highlighted the urgency of breaking the cycle of violence, emphasizing the importance of concerted efforts to prevent recurring outbreaks of hostilities. He stressed that it is the civilian population, irrespective of their affiliation, that bears the brunt of such conflicts.
Secretary Blinken, in turn, characterized the deadly cross-border assault by Hamas fighters a week ago, resulting in the loss of 1300 lives, as an act that defies description. This statement underscores the gravity of the situation and the pressing need for a resolution.
Blinken’s regional tour, spanning seven countries, is aimed at averting an escalation of the Israel-Palestinian conflict into a broader conflagration. Additionally, his visit seeks to facilitate the release of Israeli and American hostages currently held by Hamas.
The discussions between Secretary Blinken and Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan signify a concerted international effort to address the crisis and seek a path towards lasting peace and stability in the region. Their shared commitment to safeguarding civilian lives and promoting de-escalation is a testament to the urgency of the situation.
