Blinken arrives in Cairo to push for a Gaza truce

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken arrived in Cairo on Wednesday morning on a quick visit during which he will discuss in particular efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. This visit, Blinken's tenth to the region since the war between Israel and Hamas began about a year ago, is distinguished by the fact that it will not include Israel or any other country. US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement that during his visit, which will last from today until Thursday, "Blinken will meet with Egyptian officials to discuss ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza that ensures the release of all hostages, alleviates the suffering of the Palestinian people, and helps establish broader regional security." Miller added that the US Secretary of State will participate during the visit, with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdel Aati, in "chairing the opening of the US-Egyptian strategic dialogue." According to the statement, this "strategic dialogue aims to strengthen bil ateral relations and deepen economic development, as well as consolidate relations between the peoples of the two countries through culture and education."/End Source: National Iraqi News Agency