Blinken's Diplomatic Efforts Amidst Gaza Conflict

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to meet with Arab leaders as heavy fighting continues in Gaza, signaling a diplomatic push to de-escalate the conflict. The meetings come as the violence between Israel and Hamas enters its second week, with no immediate signs of a ceasefire. Blinken has expressed support for Israel's right to defend itself, but has also called for an end to the violence and a path towards a two-state solution. The US is facing pressure to take a more active role in resolving the crisis, with calls for a UN Security Council meeting and international mediation efforts.