The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, intensifies diplomatic efforts in Israel, aiming to secure a ceasefire in Gaza amid ongoing hostilities.
During his visit, Blinken underscored the critical nature of the negotiations, stating that this might be the last opportunity to ensure the release of captives and establish a ceasefire.
Addressing the press in Tel Aviv before meeting Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Blinken emphasized the urgent need to de-escalate regional tensions exacerbated by the conflict.
The US has ramped up diplomatic pressure, presenting proposals to bridge gaps between the conflicting parties, marking Blinken’s ninth trip to the region since the outbreak of the conflict in October. He described this moment as possibly the final chance to achieve peace, urging all involved to seize this opportunity and avoid actions that could derail the process.
Concerns over the conflict’s potential to escalate into a broader regional war have grown, especially after recent targeted killings of senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. Blinken’s comments reflect the US’s broader strategy to prevent further escalation and ensure the negotiations succeed.
Blinken is also set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. President Herzog, who plays a largely symbolic role, echoed the sentiments of many Israelis, stressing the importance of returning captives held in Gaza since the conflict’s onset.
The US, alongside Egypt and Qatar, continues to mediate indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, with the next round of negotiations expected to take place in Cairo.
Amid ongoing negotiations, Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza persist, with Palestinian health officials reporting a death toll exceeding 40,000 since the bombardment began.
