US allies in the Middle East have been disappointed with Washington’s ability to ensure their security, former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Bloomberg in an interview. “It’s sending a message, unfortunately, to our partners in the region that they can’t necessarily count on us when it comes to coming to their defense. And what’s the result? They are all looking to talk to Tehran, maybe cut a deal with Tehran,” he said.

“There is not a good military way out: diplomacy is the way you’ve got to go,” he added.