As stated by Spokesperson Matthew Miller:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke yesterday with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty to discuss the situation in the Middle East and Sudan. The Secretary emphasized the importance of bringing the war in Gaza to an end, securing the release of all hostages, and increasing and sustaining the delivery of humanitarian assistance. The Secretary noted that Hamas has once again refused to release even a limited number of hostages to secure a ceasefire and relief for the people of Gaza. He discussed the importance of establishing a path for the post-conflict period that provides governance, security, and reconstruction. On Lebanon, the Secretary and Foreign Minister Abdelatty discussed efforts to promote a diplomatic resolution that would enable civilians on both sides of the blue line to return to their homes with safety and security. The Secretary underscored the need for Lebanese leaders to swiftly address the country's presidential vacancy.
The Secretary also thanked the Foreign Minister for Egypt's crucial work to achieve an end to the conflict in Sudan, protect civilians, and increase humanitarian aid, noting the importance of advancing a transition to a civilian government.
