Blinken states that Qatar and Egypt are mediating ceasefire proposal talks with Hamas
The U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that Qatar and Egypt are actively facilitating discussions with Hamas regarding a ceasefire proposal backed by Washington.
During his eighth regional tour since October 7, Blinken attributed the delay in accepting the agreement to Hamas, noting that Israel had already accepted the proposal, despite a lack of official confirmation and conflicting statements from Israeli officials.
On Tuesday, a State Department spokesperson said the United States is working with Egypt and Israel to expedite the reopening of the Rafah crossing, which was occupied by Israeli soldiers on May 6 and subsequently burned down. The U.S. is also engaging with Israeli authorities to ensure the passage of relief workers through the Karam Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing.
Last month, U.S. President Joe Biden proposed a truce plan involving a three-phased approach to achieving a complete ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. However, Israeli forces have continued airstrikes and artillery bombardments, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and displacing over 90 percent of Gaza’s population.
The ongoing conflict, often described as genocidal, has resulted in at least 37,372 deaths and 85,452 injuries in Gaza.
Recently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the Biden administration, claiming it was blocking weapons shipments to Israel. This prompted confusion in Washington, with White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre expressing uncertainty about Netanyahu's claims.
Despite internal pressure to halt military support for Israel, Biden has used emergency powers to expedite arms deliveries to Israel. Meanwhile, the Israeli military continues its operations in Gaza, with recent attacks targeting the Nuseirat refugee camp and resulting in multiple casualties.