Blinken Announces Israel’s Support for New Gaza Proposal Amid Ceasefire Talks and Hostage Negotiations

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that Israel has agreed to a new proposal aimed at resolving the conflict in Gaza, which includes provisions for a cease-fire and hostage release. Blinken urged Hamas to accept the proposal but did not provide details on whether the concerns raised by Hamas had been addressed.

The negotiations, involving the U.S., Israel, Egypt, and Qatar, are critical in preventing further regional escalation, particularly by deterring actions from Iran and Hezbollah.

Following a key meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken confirmed that Israel is supportive of the proposal. However, he noted that further discussions are required to finalize the agreement’s implementation, emphasizing that there are still complex issues needing resolution. Blinken refrained from providing specifics about these issues but stressed the importance of resolving them.

Hamas has expressed dissatisfaction with the mediation process, accusing U.S. negotiators of favoring Israel and rejecting some of the latest demands made by Israel. Blinken did not clarify whether the proposal addresses contentious issues such as Israel’s request for control over strategic corridors within Gaza, which Hamas has previously opposed.

The ongoing conflict, which began on October 7, has led to substantial casualties and severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, and the territory faces a potential outbreak of polio due to a lack of vaccines. Blinken highlighted the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis and is collaborating with Israel to ensure that aid is delivered promptly.

The proposed cease-fire plan outlines a three-phase process where Hamas would release all hostages taken during the conflict in exchange for Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners. Recent statements from Hamas suggest frustration with new conditions imposed by Israel, which they view as prolonging the conflict. Negotiations are set to continue, with Blinken traveling to Egypt and Qatar to advance the discussions.