08/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/21/2024 12:00
The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi. The Secretary stressed the urgent need to finalize the ceasefire deal that would alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people and secure the release of hostages. The Secretary underscored that the bridging proposal presented by the negotiators addressed the remaining gaps in a manner that allows for swift implementation of the deal. The Secretary also discussed the importance of reducing tensions in the region and reaffirmed the commitment of the United States to the preservation of the historic status quo at Jerusalem's holy sites. Secretary Blinken reiterated his gratitude for Jordan's leadership in providing life-saving humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians.