Blinken: Ceasefire Negotiations Reached Final Stage

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that ceasefire negotiations are in the final stage, and the US is collaborating with Egypt and Qatar to finalize an agreement in order to prevent further actions in the Middle East.

Blinken emphasized that continued attacks only prolong conflict, instability, and insecurity for everyone involved, and they also raise the risk of unforeseeable and uncontrollable outcomes. He urged all parties in the region to assess the situation, comprehend the potential for miscalculations, and make decisions that will ease tensions rather than escalate them. This is especially crucial given the pivotal moment in the ceasefire negotiations in Gaza.

Blinken made these remarks following a meeting with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles in Annapolis, Maryland.