White House Middle East envoy Brett McGurk is currently in Saudi Arabia as part of ongoing efforts to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah. Sources indicate that a potential agreement may be within reach, prompting McGurk's visit to the region.
McGurk, known for his frequent travels to the Middle East, is expected to remain in Saudi Arabia until Tuesday. His discussions with regional counterparts are set to cover various topics, including the possibility of a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon. This agreement could potentially pave the way for progress in resolving the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as other issues related to regional stability.
According to White House spokesman John Kirby, the negotiations for a Lebanon ceasefire have involved extensive deliberations and efforts over the past few months. Kirby expressed cautious optimism about the current state of negotiations, stating that significant progress has been made. However, he emphasized the need for prudence in characterizing the situation, noting that a final deal has not yet been reached.
The discussions in Saudi Arabia are part of broader diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the region. McGurk's presence underscores the United States' commitment to facilitating dialogue and negotiation between conflicting parties in the Middle East.