News and reports from the State Department.

As mediators in the ongoing discussions to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages and detainees, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar jointly call on both Hamas and Israel to finalize the agreement embodying the principles outlined by President Biden on May 31, 2024. These principles brought the demands of all parties together in a deal that serves multiple interests and will bring immediate relief both to the long-suffering people of Gaza as well as the long-suffering hostages and their families. This deal offers a roadmap for a permanent ceasefire and ending...

Every June, the United States celebrates Pride Month, commemorating the uprising at the Stonewall Inn that catalyzed a global movement toward LGBTQI+ equality and the inception of Pride as many know it today. Despite significant strides for equality around the world, LGBTQI+ persons in many countries continue to face grave danger, including laws criminalizing LGBTQI+ persons and their allies, violent attacks, and denial of lifesaving and gender-affirming treatment.

The United States extends congratulations to President Nayib Bukele of the Republic of El Salvador on his inauguration today. "We stand ready to deepen our ties with El Salvador and work together under the Administration’s Root Causes Strategy on good governance, citizen security with due process, inclusive economic prosperity, and human rights."

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry regarding the proposal to achieve lasting peace in Gaza. The conversation, as reported by Spokesperson Matthew Miller, focused on the necessity of a complete ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the increase of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza.

Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Ambassador Bonnie D. Jenkins will travel to Singapore from May 31 to June 2, 2024.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken engaged in a phone conversation with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on May 31, 2024. The discussion centered around a proposal aimed at achieving an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, securing the release of all hostages, and ending the ongoing conflict.

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud

Deputy Secretary Verma’s Meeting with Jamaican Foreign Minister Johnson Smith

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, the High Representative of the European Union, and the Secretary of State of the United States of America have issued a joint statement regarding recent sanctions on North Korea (DPRK) and Russia. The statement emphasizes that these sanctions represent a coordinated effort to hold both nations accountable for their involvement in the unlawful transfer of arms from DPRK to Russia for use in attacking Ukraine.

Secretary Blinken spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on May 31, 2024, reaffirming the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine. The conversation underscored U.S. backing for Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russian military positions within Russia, from which attacks are being launched.

The following text was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Japan, and the Republic of Korea on the occasion of the United States-Japan-Republic of Korea Trilateral Vice Foreign Minister-Level Dialogue.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi on May 31, 2024. According to Spokesperson Matthew Miller, the discussion centered around a proposal submitted to Hamas aimed at achieving an immediate ceasefire, securing the release of all hostages, and ending the war in Gaza.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met on May 31, 2024, to discuss preparations for the upcoming Washington Summit.

Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Richard R. Verma met with Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne on the margins of the UN Conference on Small Island Developing States in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, on Wednesday, May 29.

Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens will travel to Oslo, Norway, from June 3-5. Ambassador Carstens is scheduled to deliver remarks and participate in a panel titled "Silencing Critics: Authoritarian Hostage Taking" at the 16th Oslo Freedom Forum hosted by the Human Rights Foundation.