The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken believes that this time is time for both Palestine and Israel to agree on the ceasefire deal. This deal is important, especially for Israel to free the hostages held by Hamas. Also, it is important to bring much-needed relief to Palestinians. They are also suffering from the last 10 months of intense fighting.  This was Blinken’s ninth trip to the Middle East, since the conflict started. It greatly points out the urgency of the situation and his commitment to finding a solution.

Mediators from different countries including the US have expressed some optimism. So there is hope that the deal is close. But there are also some complex challenges. Hamas is not happy with the latest proposal designs by mediators. Also, Israel said there are some specific conditions on which Israel can never be compromised. This makes the talks difficult but Blinken efforts continue to make progress in the ceasefire deal.  

Soon the new talks come into light and this is expected to take place in Egypt. This meeting also highlights the importance of Blinken’s visit. 

Additionally, there are growing fears that the conflict could spread and escalate into a broader regional war, especially after the recent killings of militant leaders in Lebanon, which Iran has blamed on Israel.

Blinken showed concern about the hostages. Also, it may be the last chance to release the hostages, secure a ceasefire and make efforts towards peace and stability. Also, the involvement of everybody is compulsory in it. 

Any action that could disrupt the ongoing progress should be avoided. Also not to take any actions against Iran. The main focus is to stop the ongoing Gaza war. Also to prevent any escalation or provocations that might delay the completion of this important deal or worsen the existing conflict. Herzog also expressed his deep feelings to Blinken. It is due to the fact that the Biden administration supported Israel from day one. He also mentioned that the recent attacks on Israel are shocking. 

And expressed his sorrows and concern to him. Herzog also said that at this time, Israel is facing threats from all directions. Despite these challenges, they consistently stand on their feet and respond with remarkable strength, resilience, and determination.

This week, mediators will gather once again in Cairo with the aim of solidifying a lasting cease-fire. After concluding his visit to Israel, Blinken is scheduled to travel to Egypt on Tuesday to continue diplomatic efforts. The goal is to secure peace and stability in the region and prevent further escalation of violence.

The private talks between Netanyahu and Blinken are also held. This conversation continued for about two and half hours. They discussed important issues in this meeting. Later, Blinken was scheduled to meet with Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant. 

On October 7, Hamas attacked Israel. This attack is the root cause of the conflict. At that time 1200, most civilians were killed. Also, 250 people became hostages. It is still believed that most of the hostages are not alive and a third number of this figure died. Over 100 hostages were released in November during a brief cease-fire.

The Israel response to this attack was very severe. With over, 40,000 Palestinians reported dead in Gaza, leaving the area heavily damaged.

Last week, progress in the deal to stop Israel’s militant actions was reported from the United States, Egypt and Qatar. 

Netanyahu mentioned that Israel might show some flexibility but won’t compromise on everything.

The deal suggested that Hamas would free all hostages caught in the October 7 attack. In response, Israel would also pull out of Gaza and release Palestinian prisoners. Hamas said Israel added news demands in the deal. It includes keeping military forces to stop weapons smuggling and checking Palestinians returning home. 

While Israel said these are not demands and are just clarifications. The United States tries their best to resolve these differences so that both agree on a ceasefire and bring peace. Otherwise, all talks fail. Hamas accuses Netanyahu of making new conditions to extend the conflict and says the latest offer is a concession to Israel.

According to Hamas,

“ The new proposal responds to Netanyahu’s conditions.”

According to Blinken, this is not the time for arguing. Both sides should stop making excuses. An Israeli team met with Egyptian officials about the Gaza-Egypt border, but they didn’t make progress. The Israeli team still wants to control the border and didn’t suggest any new ideas.