Blinken Tests Positive for COVID-19, May Miss Global Coalition Against ISIS Meeting

In a statement, State Department spokesman Ned Price said the Secretary "tested positive for COVID-19 this afternoon by a PCR test," noting that Blinken is fully vaccinated and has received a booster shot against the virus and is only experiencing "mild symptoms."

Blinken will have to isolate at home and maintain a virtual work schedule, in accordance with medical requirements, Price said, stressing that the US chief diplomat "looks forward to returning to the Department and resuming the full scope of his duties and travel as soon as possible."

Meanwhile, concerns are emerging about his participation in the Global Coalition against Daesh meeting in Marrakech next week, where he is expected to chair this meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.

The meeting will bring together in the ochre city the foreign ministers of the world’s major powers, Africa and representatives of international institutions active in the fight against Daesh in particular, and terrorism in general.