RIYADH: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said his country is working closely with Saudi Arabia to ensure the protection of civilians in the Gaza Strip amid Israels military escalation.  The remarks came during a meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan in Riyadh on Saturday to discuss the situation in the enclave.  Both ministers said their countries are working together to ensure the protection of civilians, as well as on other issues of common interest, including bringing peace to the region.  Blinken described the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7 as “indescribable.” He added that aid must be allowed to reach civilians in Gaza, and safe areas should be established. Blinken also said the Palestinian armed group “does not represent the Palestinian people and their hopes.” Prince Faisal renewed the Kingdom’s calls for a collective effort to stop the cycle of violence amid the escalation in the Gaza Strip.  A ceasefire must go into effect in Gaza to allow the entry of humanitarian aid, he said.