New Delhi: CIA Director William Burns and MI6 Chief Richard Moore appeared together at a Financial Times event in London. This joint appearance marked the first time the heads of the US and UK intelligence agencies have publicly collaborated amid ongoing international crises, including the Gaza conflict and the Ukraine war.Efforts to resolve Gaza conflictWilliam Burns, who is spearheading US diplomatic efforts to end the Gaza conflict and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, announced that a more detailed ceasefire proposal would be forthcoming in the next few days. Burns, working closely with Qatar and Egypt, mentioned that the US was actively engaged in developing “texts and creative formulas” to address the conflict. He emphasized that achieving a ceasefire would require significant political will from both sides and hoped leaders would recognize the need for “hard choices and difficult compromises.”The Gaza conflict, which began with a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties. Israeli sources report that approximately 1,200 people were killed and about 250 hostages were taken by Hamas. In retaliation, Israels offensive has claimed the lives of nearly 41,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas health authorities, and has devastated the coastal enclave.Support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggressionIn addition to discussing Gaza, Burns and Moore also highlighted their joint commitment to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia. They penned a joint op-ed in the Financial Times underscoring the critical importance of continued backing for Ukraine. The leaders praised Ukraines recent offensive into Russias Kursk region as a bold and audacious move intended to shift the dynamics of the conflict. Richard Moore characterized the Ukrainian offensive as “audacious and bold,” although he acknowledged the uncertainty regarding its sustainability in the Kursk region. Burns described the offensive as a “significant tactical achievement” but noted that there was no indication that Russian President Vladimir Putins hold on power was weakening.
