- Blinken has made urgent appeal for a ceasefire
- Hamas has expressed skepticism
- The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has made a urgent appeal for a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza, saying it’s “probably the best, maybe the last opportunity” for an agreement.
During his ninth trip to the region since the war began, Blinken met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing the need for a deal before the situation escalates further.
Despite US optimism, Hamas has expressed skepticism, citing significant differences, including the requirement for Israeli troops to fully withdraw from Gaza.
The current negotiations are based on a modified US proposal aimed at bridging the gaps between Israel and Hamas.
Blinken stressed the importance of avoiding escalation and provocations, saying, “This is a decisive moment… to get the hostages home, to get a ceasefire, and to put everyone on a better path to enduring peace and security.”
However, both Israel and Hamas accuse each other of obstructing a deal, with Hamas claiming Netanyahu is setting new conditions and demands to prolong the war.
The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to an attack on southern Israel, resulting in significant loss of life and ongoing conflict.
A potential deal could involve a reduced Israeli presence along the Philadelphi Corridor, but differences remain.
The US hopes to secure an agreement as soon as next week, but the level of optimism is not shared by Israel or Hamas.
