AMMAN: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Amman, Jordan as part of a weeklong tour to the region amid escalating tensions.
In a statement via social media, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Saturday that Jordan is a vital partner in helping to stop the conflict in the region from spreading. He added that they are grateful for their leadership in facilitating help to civilian people in the Gaza Strip.
.@SecBlinken has landed in Amman. Jordan is a vital partner in helping to prevent the conflict in the region from spreading, and we are grateful for their leadership in facilitating aid to civilians in Gaza.
— Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) January 6, 2024
Earlier, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a crucial meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Saturday. Both discussed the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza and navigating concerns about the forthcoming sale of US fighter jets to Ankara.
Blinken Arrives in Amman Amid War in Gaza
This meeting marked the initial leg of Blinken’s fourth crisis tour since the Gaza conflict began three months ago, with subsequent visits planned for Israel and the West Bank.
Blinken’s discussions with Erdogan, known for his strong criticisms of Israel and US support for the nation, aimed at urging Israel to increase aid to Palestinians and transition to a combat phase allowing displaced people to return home. The talks also focused on containing the violence and future governance of the region post-conflict.
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