US, Jordanian diplomats discuss tensions in Israel, Palestine

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi discussed recent violence in Israel and occupied West Bank, Palestine, the State Department said Tuesday.

The diplomats had a telephone call Monday, said spokesman Ned Price, which also tackled the violence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.

"The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed the importance of Israelis and Palestinians working to end the cycle of violence by refraining from actions and rhetoric that further escalate tensions.

"Secretary Blinken emphasized the importance of upholding the historic status quo at the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount, and appreciation for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan’s special role as custodian of Muslim holy places in Jerusalem," Price said in the statement.

Price also reaffirmed the US commitment to stability in the region and support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.