(ChurchLeaders) While visiting the Middle East this week to support the current ceasefire, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the United States will take several steps to mend diplomatic relations with the Palestinians. At a yet-to-be-determined date, America will reopen its consulate in Jerusalem and designate it as an autonomous office. Also, the United States will provide almost $40 million in financial aid to Palestinians, an amount that includes $5.5 million in emergency funds for Gaza. These steps represent reversals of decisions made by the Trump administration.