Antony Blinken, the United States Secretary of State, is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia tomorrow, Monday, to meet with regional partners - a statement by the US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said yesterday.

His agenda includes pivotal talks aimed at reaching a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of the captives currently being held by Hamas in the Strip - Miller said.

The visit, spanning two days, will also focus on “the recent increase in humanitarian assistance being delivered to Gaza and underscore the importance of ensuring that increase is sustained”.

“The Secretary will also emphasize the importance of preventing the conflict from spreading and discuss ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the region.”

The meetings will also cover a “pathway to an independent Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel” - per the State Department.

Blinken will also participate in a Ministerial meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council to advance coordination on regional security.

*Stay informed with our carefully curated content delivered directly to your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and in-depth analysis. Click here to subscribe.