Counselor Chollet’s Call with Bahraini Foreign Ministry Under Secretary Al Khalifa

State Department Counselor Derek H. Chollet spoke with Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Under Secretary for Political Affairs Dr. Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa about the proposal on the table to achieve an enduring ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of all hostages. Counselor Chollet underscored that the proposal would greatly benefit both Palestinians and Israelis, allow a surge in humanitarian assistance into Gaza, enable the return of displaced persons to areas throughout Gaza, and permit international reconstruction efforts to begin.  He reiterated that Hamas should accept the proposal without further delay.  The Counselor emphasized the importance of supporting this proposal as a means of building a more peaceful and stable Middle East region, including a clear pathway to a two-state solution where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace and security.  He further recognized Bahrain’s leadership role in promoting peace across the region as the Arab League president this year.  He also noted the importance of the Houthis immediately ceasing their attacks on international shipping and thanked Bahrain for its cooperation on Red Sea security.  The Counselor noted appreciation for ongoing close bilateral cooperation in alignment with the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) signed by the United States and Bahrain in September 2023.