US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has issued a stern warning to Hamas, stating that if they do not accept the Gaza ceasefire plan outlined by President Biden, they will be to blame for the continued violence in the region.
During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Blinken emphasized the importance of Hamas accepting the proposed ceasefire plan. He highlighted the responsibility of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who he referred to as “one guy hiding ten storeys underground in Gaza,” to make the final decision.
While Netanyahu has not publicly endorsed President Biden’s plan, Blinken noted a positive response from Hamas to a resolution passed by the UN Security Council supporting the proposal. However, he stressed that Hamas’s formal response is crucial for progress to be made.
The proposed ceasefire plan involves a phased approach, including the release of hostages and prisoners by both sides, leading to a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Blinken’s visit to the region is part of a diplomatic effort by the US to push for an agreement, despite facing significant challenges.
Protesters outside Blinken’s hotel in Tel Aviv called for an agreement, holding pictures of hostages and chanting for action. Among them was Vicki Cohen, the mother of an Israeli soldier kidnapped by Hamas, who urged the US government to pressure their own government for a resolution.
Blinken later met with families of hostages, including Americans, and assured them of continued efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement. He then traveled to Amman and the Dead Sea for a conference with Arab leaders, where UN officials described the situation in Gaza as a humanitarian crisis that requires urgent action.
As the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, the international community is calling for a swift resolution to prevent further loss of life and suffering. The pressure is on Hamas to accept the ceasefire plan and bring an end to the violence that has plagued the region for too long.
