Secretary Blinken Engages in Additional Diplomacy on the Situation in Gaza
 Türkiye
In Istanbul, Secretary Blinken met with Turkish President Erdogan and Foreign Minister Fidan.They discussed the conflict in Gaza, with the Secretary emphasizing the need to prevent the conflict from spreading, secure the release of hostages, expand humanitarian assistance, reduce civilian casualties, and work toward lasting regional peace.
Greece
Secretary Blinken headed to Crete to meet with Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis, where he thanked the Prime Minister for Greece’s regional leadership, including its continued support for Ukraine, delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza, and for preserving freedom of navigation in the Red Sea through its participation in Operation Prosperity Guardian.
Jordan
Next, Secretary Blinken traveled to Amman where he met with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan and Foreign Minister Safadi. Secretary Blinken stressed U.S. opposition to forcible displacement of Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza, as well as the critical need to protect Palestinian civilians in the West Bank from extremist settler violence.
Qatar
In Doha, Secretary Blinken met with Qatar's Prime Minister. Qatar was instrumental in the negotiations that led to the release of more than 100 hostages, including American citizens.
“To those still being held hostage, to their loved ones, to their families, I promise you this: the United States will continue to work relentlessly to bring you home, to get you together with your family and loved ones,” Secretary Blinken said.
World Food Program Warehouse Providing Aid to Gaza
In Amman, Secretary Blinken toured a World Food Program warehouse that is providing life-saving food assistance to civilians in Gaza.
“It’s imperative that we see a substantial and sustained increase in humanitarian aid,” Secretary Blinken said on Twitter/X. “That’s a big focus of the conversations with allies and partners during my visit to the region.”
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