Blinken contacts Turkish, Egyptian, Jordanian, and Saudi Foreign Ministers regarding Iran-Israel tensions
- In Reports
- 04:22 PM, Apr 15, 2024
- Myind Staff
Amid indications of a deepening crisis in the Middle East following Iran's attacks on Israel, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken contacted the foreign ministers of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt by phone. Additionally, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin held discussions with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia and Israel.
Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles towards Israel in retaliation for the April 1 attack on its consulate in Syria, according to Tehran's statements.
Israeli, US, and allied forces successfully intercepted and shot down the majority of Iranian drones and missiles before they could reach their intended targets.
Following a conference call with G-7 leaders, US President Joe Biden engaged in separate telephone conversations with King Abdullah of Jordan and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, marking a diplomatic push to address the crisis.
During the calls, American leadership stressed the imperative of preventing further escalation in the region and reiterated America's unwavering commitment to Israel's security.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated in a readout that Secretary of State Blinken, in calls with officials including Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister Ayman Safadi, Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, and Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, emphasised the significance of diplomatic efforts towards a lasting resolution in Gaza, ensuring peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Blinken expressed gratitude to Fidan for Turkey's efforts in de-escalating tensions and discussed with Shoukry the importance of increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza, protecting Palestinian civilians, and securing an immediate ceasefire for the release of all hostages.
Miller reported that Blinken expressed gratitude to Jordan for its leadership in delivering life-saving humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians, which includes joint US-Jordan airdrops and overland deliveries.
Miller stated that in his conversation with Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, Blinken reiterated the US stance of not seeking escalation but continuing to support Israel's defence. Both officials highlighted the necessity of a coordinated diplomatic response.
According to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, in his call with Saudi Minister of Defense Khalid bin Salman, Austin emphasised the US commitment to defending Israel and US personnel while not seeking escalation.
Austin also stressed the enduring defence partnership with Saudi Arabia and pledged to work with the Kingdom and other partners to de-escalate tensions in the region. Ryder added that Austin briefed Gallant on consultations with allies to reinforce international resolve against Iranian aggression.
Image source: Hindustan Times
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