The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke yesterday with Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. They discussed ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire agreement that would alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people and secure the release of the hostages to return to their families. The Secretary underscored that the bridging proposal presented by negotiators addresses the remaining gaps in a manner that allows for swift implementation of the deal. They affirmed that no party in the region should take actions to undermine efforts to reach a deal and welcomed the next round of talks in Cairo. The Secretary expressed gratitude to the Amir for Qatar’s vital role in mediating negotiations and promoting regional peace.
The Secretary and the Amir also discussed continued efforts to end the war in Sudan. The Secretary and the Amir noted the importance of allowing unhindered humanitarian access to Sudanese civilians.
