President Joseph R. Biden Jr. spoke today with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohamed bin Salman about the situation in the Middle East region.  The President affirmed that the United States fully supports the defense of U.S. partners facing terrorist threats, whether from state or non-state actors.  He discussed ongoing diplomatic and military efforts to deter state and non-state actors from widening the conflict between Israel and Hamas.  The two leaders agreed on pursuing broader diplomatic efforts to maintain stability across the region and prevent the conflict from expanding.  They welcomed the delivery of humanitarian assistance from Egypt into Gaza and recognized that much more is needed for civilians to have sustained access to food, water, and medical assistance.  The President welcomed the Gulf Cooperation Council’s contribution of $100 million to support these humanitarian efforts, and discussed the disbursement of $100 million from the United States to support the response.  Both leaders welcomed ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas and called for their immediate release.  They also affirmed the importance of working towards a sustainable peace between Israelis and Palestinians as soon as the crisis subsides, building on the work that was already underway between Saudi Arabia and the United States over recent months.  They agreed to remain in close coordination directly and through their teams over the coming period. 

###