The US government reportedly prevented Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki, a member of the Contact Group affiliated with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League, from making statements during his talks in the capital, Washington, according to Anadolu Agency.

 

The group held a press conference at the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington, where, in response to a journalist's question directed at al-Maliki, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan intervened, stating, "Mr. Maliki cannot answer your question as the US government imposes restrictions on him, and he cannot communicate with the press."

 

The Contact Group is expected to meet with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The group is scheduled to travel to Canada on Saturday for further discussions.

 

The formation of the Contact Group took place following a decision at the Arab Islamic Summit in Riyadh on November 11th, aimed at exploring ways to cease hostilities in Gaza.

 

The group's mission continues to be pivotal in addressing the ongoing crisis in the region. The US government's interference in the freedom of expression of a key member raises concerns about the dynamics of international dialogue and diplomacy surrounding the crisis.