Blinken Visits Iraq in an Attempt to Prevent the Expansion of the Gaza War

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Iraq today, Sunday, in an unannounced trip as part of his Middle East tour to reduce tensions following the outbreak of war between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement "Hamas" last month. During his visit, he affirmed that "the United States is working hard to ensure that the ongoing conflict does not extend beyond Gaza," adding that he "had good and very frank discussions with the Baghdad government." Blinken stated that "U.S. officials are working to establish a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, which would enhance several priorities including increasing aid and securing the release of hostages held by Hamas." He revealed that "100 aid trucks are now moving to the besieged coastal enclave, but this is 'not enough at all'." Blinken believes that "the Palestinian Authority must play a central role regarding the future of the Gaza Strip." After a visit to the West Bank, Blinken arrived in Baghdad this evening, marking his first visit to Iraq since taking office as U.S. Secretary of State. He held discussions with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.