US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken will visit Israel, the West Bank and the United Arab Emirates this week, a State Department official said today.

“It will underscore the need to continue the increased flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, secure the release of all hostages and ensure the protection of Gaza’s civilians,” said a US State Department spokesman, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Anthony Blinken will discuss with partners Washington’s positions on the future of Gaza and the need to establish an independent Palestinian state, the US official said.

He also announced that the head of American diplomacy will attend the 28th United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP 28) to be held in Dubai from November 30 to December 12.