US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in discussions with Qatari and French foreign ministers over the weekend to address the developing situations in the Middle East, as per official statements.
During his conversation with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot, Blinken focused on exploring diplomatic solutions that would facilitate the safe return of citizens to their homes in Israel and Lebanon. The two officials also delved into negotiations concerning ceasefire agreements and the release of hostages in Gaza. Additionally, Blinken took a firm stance against Iran's military assault on Israel on October 1, expressing condemnation during the call.
In a separate call with Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Blinken and Al Thani emphasized the significance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 in Lebanon to enable the repatriation of civilians to their residences. The leaders also addressed ongoing talks related to ceasefire arrangements and the release of hostages in Gaza.
