U.S. and Qatari Foreign Ministers Discuss Efforts for a Ceasefire in Gaza

On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani about ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, ensure the freedom of all hostages, and sustainably increase humanitarian aid throughout Gaza. The U.S. State Department announced that Blinken reiterated that the United States would continue its efforts to ensure an agreement is reached. The U.S. Secretary of State and the Qatari Prime Minister also discussed the post-war period, including measures to ensure security, governance, and the reconstruction of Gaza. Blinken also thanked the Qatari official for his country's vital and ongoing role in efforts for peace and sustainable stability in the region. Last Friday, the U.S. Secretary of State stated that negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire and the return of hostages are nearing the finish line. Blinken said at the annual Aspen Security Forum that if an agreement is reached, a ceasefire will be established, hostages will return to Israel, and a better path for establishing stability and lasting peace will be created. He noted that the final steps to reach the finish line are also the hardest. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's remarks in the U.S. Congress; he stated that the Iranian government is involved in all forms of terrorism in the Middle East. Reactions from U.S. lawmakers to Netanyahu's speech; Hill: almost everyone applauded Netanyahu standing. The return of the bodies of at least three Israeli hostages to their homes; the army says they were found in a military operation. Congressional police clashed with Palestinian-supporting protesters who breached the security barrier.