Tue Sep 17 04:45:32 UTC 2024: ## Blinken Heads to Egypt for Gaza Ceasefire Push

**WASHINGTON DC** – U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to Egypt on Tuesday in a bid to engage key regional partners in a renewed push for a Gaza ceasefire. The U.S. is working with Egypt and Qatar on a revised proposal to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the U.S. is actively seeking a proposal that can achieve a lasting truce and the release of hostages taken by Hamas at the start of the war on October 7th. While a timeline for the revised proposal has not been announced, officials have indicated its imminent presentation.

During his visit, Blinken will co-chair the opening session of the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue and meet with Egyptian leaders to discuss efforts to secure a ceasefire, secure the release of all hostages, address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and promote broader regional security.

Despite this trip marking his 10th visit to the Middle East since the war began, Blinken’s itinerary does not include a stop in Israel. He did, however, meet with Israel’s opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Yair Lapid, earlier on Monday. Lapid emphasized the importance of a hostage deal and an end to the war, urging the U.S. not to allow Hamas to circumvent a deal.

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