(VOVWORLD) -US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf has departed for the Middle East, where she will meet with government officials to advance diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas conflict, the US State Department said.
 Palestinian people flee from the eastern areas of Khan Younis in southern Gaza Strip, on July 2, 2024 (Photo: Xinhua/VNA) |
Ms. Leaf will travel to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank. Her visit will continue diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire agreement, secure the release of all hostages, and orient the post-conflict period toward lasting peace and security.
Earlier, CIA Director Bill Burns and the White House’s top official for the Middle East Brett McGurk were in the Egyptian capital to try to close gaps in the Gaza cease-fire talks. On Monday, the two met with officials from Jordan, Israel, and Egypt.