Bliken’s Response to Hamas’ Ceasefire Offer
US representative Antony Blinken has held a press conference in Tel Aviv following his political discussions in Israel and Palestine. Blinken reported that he examined with Israeli officials the proposition presented by Hamas to Qatar and Egypt regarding the release of hostages and the extension of the humanitarian distance. He stated, “While there may be some unrealistic demands in Hamas’s response, we believe that there is an opportunity to work towards an agreement with Israel.” Moreover, he emphasized the importance of protecting civilians in the Gaza Strip and delivering more humanitarian aid to the region. Blinken pointed out the severe situation with approximately 2 million displaced people, hundreds of thousands experiencing severe hunger, and the loss of lives being faced by many.
Additionally, Blinken stressed the importance of initiatives to safeguard civilians affected by military operations, particularly in Rafah. He urged Israel to open Erez to allow aid to be delivered to the north of Gaza. Despite supporting Tel Aviv’s right to defend itself, Blinken underlined the need to prioritize the safety of civilians in any military operation. He also discussed steps to reform and revitalize the Palestinian administration but stated that the United States does not find it acceptable for Hamas to play any role in Gaza’s management.
Blinken’s remarks come at a crucial time as the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate. His efforts to address the humanitarian crisis and prioritize the safety of civilians reflect the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.