Hamas Urged to Accept New Cease-Fire Proposal by Secretary of State Antony Blinken

US Secretary of State Increases Pressure on Hamas to End Gaza Conflict

The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has intensified pressure on Hamas to accept the latest cease-fire proposal to halt the longstanding conflict in Gaza. During his seventh visit to the region since October, Blinken met with Israeli leaders to push for a resolution in the Israeli-Hamas ceasefire negotiations.

Hamas Sticks to its Demand for a Complete Israeli Troop Withdrawal

Although progress has been made, a key issue that remains is Hamas’s demand for a complete Israeli troop withdrawal. The proposed deal under discussion includes the possibility of addressing this demand. However, Hamas aims to reinforce the language to ensure the withdrawal covers the entire Gaza Strip. Hamas is expected to respond to the proposal on Thursday.

Netanyahu’s Stance on War and Cease-Fire

In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected ending the war before Hamas is eliminated. Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to launching an offensive on Hamas’ last stronghold in Gaza, the town of Rafah. This contradicts the negotiations and poses challenges to reaching a cease-fire deal.

The Urgency of a Cease-Fire

Secretary Blinken has expressed the need for immediate action, stating that there is no time for further negotiations. He emphasized that an agreed deal is already available, and it is Hamas’ responsibility to accept it. The ceasefire agreement, if implemented, would release hostages, bring a pause to the war, and enable the much-needed access of food, medicine, and water to Gaza. The war has left the region on the brink of famine with the displacement of 80% of the population.

US Support and Humanitarian Concerns

The United States has provided staunch support to Israel’s campaign against Hamas. However, the U.S. has expressed increasing concern over the impact on Palestinian civilians. The U.S. has also expressed apprehension about the possibility of an Israeli attack on Rafah. American officials urge Israel to prioritize the evacuation of civilians if such an attack is conducted.

Hamas Urged to Avoid an Assault on Rafah and Seize the Opportunity for Peace

Secretary Blinken met with Israel’s ceremonial President, Isaac Herzog, emphasizing that Hamas would be blamed if no agreement is reached. He urged them to seize the opportunity for peace and not to delay the cease-fire. He also highlighted that the agreement would initiate discussions on permanent calm and enable the start of a five-year reconstruction plan.

The Humanitarian Crisis and Urgency for a Cease-Fire

Hanging in the balance is the massive humanitarian crisis. Thousands of Palestinians have fled to Rafah seeking safety and shelter, with no secure place left for them. Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have caused significant casualties and extensive destruction. The war, which began with a raid into southern Israel by Hamas, has resulted in the death of countless Palestinians. The region is in dire need of immediate reprieve and assistance.

For the latest updates on the war, follow AP’s coverage of the conflict here.