Blinken Says Optimistic About Israel-Hamas Cease-fire Despite Challenges
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed hope for a possible cease-fire and hostage-release deal between Israel and Hamas on Wednesday, despite significant disagreements on the terms. Blinken’s remarks came following his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to the region aimed at brokering peace in the ongoing conflict that has resulted in over 27,000 Palestinian deaths and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Netanyahu had rejected Hamas’ three-phase cease-fire proposal, which demanded the release of hundreds of Palestinians, including senior terrorists, in exchange for about 100 hostages. Netanyahu deemed the plan “delusional,” emphasizing military pressure as the key to freeing hostages and ruling out any agreement that would leave Hamas in control of Gaza.
Blinken criticized the humanitarian impact of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, highlighting the civilian casualties and the need for increased humanitarian assistance. He also called on Israel to ensure the delivery of aid is not obstructed and publicly urged the reopening of the Erez Crossing for aid delivery to northern Gaza.
Moreover, Blinken underscored the importance of a “concrete, time-bound and irreversible path” to a Palestinian state alongside a fully integrated Israel in the region. He reiterated the US commitment to supporting Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas, stressing the need for relentless work towards an agreement.
