US News: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on a diplomatic mission to secure a truce in the war in Gaza. He faces challenges with Hamas and Israel at odds over key elements of a potential ceasefire. Blinken met with Saudi Arabia's de-facto ruler and foreign minister, discussing the possibility of normalizing relations with Israel. The war has led to a high Palestinian death toll and tensions in the region. The US, Qatar, and Egypt have proposed a ceasefire and release of hostages, but Hamas demands the release of Palestinian prisoners.