Blinken to Embark on Fifth Mideast Trip Amid Ongoing Hostage Crisis

Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit aims to secure a ceasefire and the release of hostages, while also working towards a humanitarian pause in Gaza.

• Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and the West Bank from February 4-8, marking his fifth trip to the region since the October 7 terrorist attacks.
• The visit focuses on diplomatic efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages and to negotiate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
• Blinken's trip includes efforts to establish a humanitarian pause in Gaza to allow for increased delivery of humanitarian assistance to civilians.
• The United States reaffirms its commitment to defend its personnel and the right to freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.
• Negotiations for a potential hostage deal are ongoing, with Hamas demanding a permanent ceasefire from Israel, which Israeli leaders have refused until the terror group is completely wiped out.

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