Blinken to visit Israel to push for Gaza ceasefire

The US State Department said Secretary Antony Blinken will travel to Israel and other Middle Eastern countries to discuss "the importance of bringing the war in Gaza to an end."

Blinken's visit is scheduled for October 21 to 25. His trip was decided following the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. He is also expected to discuss the release of hostages held by the Islamic group Hamas and post-conflict planning for Gaza.

Blinken also plans to convey the US position that the situation in Lebanon should be resolved diplomatically.Washington is hoping to seize the opportunity to push for achieving a breakthrough in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, including a ceasefire.