jordan pulse -

The region is witnessing escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas, prompting U.S. diplomatic intervention to end the crisis. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit is part of a regional tour aiming to secure calm in Gaza, establish humanitarian aid corridors, and reshape the political landscape in the blockaded territory.

Blinken’s primary goal is to broker a ceasefire, alongside facilitating urgent aid for Gaza’s population, who face a severe humanitarian crisis. The U.S. aims to reinforce its role as a regional mediator, focusing on the normalization process between Israel and Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia.

Washington’s broader strategy includes proposing a new political framework in Gaza that would expand the Palestinian Authority's role after weakening Hamas militarily, aiming to achieve regional stability by recalibrating power dynamics.

The postponement of Blinken’s visit to Jordan raised questions about U.S. priorities and Jordan’s traditional role as a mediator between Palestinians and Israelis. The delay could allow Jordan to align its stance with Saudi Arabia and Egypt for a unified Arab position.

Blinken’s visit to Saudi Arabia holds deeper implications regarding normalization talks with Israel, which Saudi Arabia might leverage to push for a truce in Gaza and facilitate future political settlements, though obstacles persist due to divergent demands from both sides.

Meanwhile, as Washington proposes a “new governance model” for Gaza, the plan faces challenges, such as Palestinian factions’ refusal to make political concessions and the international community’s need for sustainable support in Gaza’s reconstruction.

Iran’s influence in the crisis is significant, as it supports armed factions in Gaza and Lebanon, increasing the risk of further escalation. Israel views Iranian support as a strategic threat and aims to undermine it with military strikes.

Blinken’s success depends on the readiness of various parties to compromise and international and regional collaboration to balance humanitarian and security needs. Yet, the question remains: can the U.S. achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in the region?