Blinken's Middle East Diplomacy: A Push for Ceasefire in Gaza Conflict

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Israel to meet with leaders during his Middle East tour, aiming for a ceasefire amid the ongoing Gaza conflict spurred by Palestinian Hamas militants. This marks his 11th visit since October 7, with military tensions also rising in Lebanon with Hezbollah.

The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, arrived in Israel on Tuesday for high-level talks with Israeli leaders. His visit marks the beginning of a broader Middle East tour focused on pursuing a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict.

This diplomatic mission is Blinken's 11th visit to the region since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, when Palestinian Hamas militants launched an attack on southern Israel, sparking a fierce Israeli military response.

Tensions have further escalated with Israeli military actions extending beyond Gaza into Lebanon, targeting the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia. Blinken's tour aims to address these growing regional conflicts.

(With inputs from agencies.)