"Blinken's Middle East Diplomacy Marathon: Gaza Focus and Turkey Talks Amid Rising Tensions"
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss the ongoing conflict in Gaza and emphasize the need for deescalation, humanitarian aid, and a two-state solution. The meeting is part of Blinken's Middle East tour aimed at reducing regional tensions and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Discussions also covered Turkey's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership and bilateral issues. Blinken's tour will continue to include visits to several countries with a focus on preventing a regional escalation of the Gaza conflict and planning for post-war governance.