The United States stressed on the necessity to avert escalation of the current conflict in the Middle East. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement, on Monday, that the US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog today. He emphasized the importance of preventing escalation of the conflict and discussed efforts to reach a diplomatic solution to allow citizens on both sides of the border between Israel and Lebanon to return home. Secretary Blinken and President Herzog also discussed ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of hostages. The Secretary underscored the U.S. commitment to securing lasting peace and stability in the region. Source: Kuwait News Agency