U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas was close to being achieved after negotiations with the help of Qatar and Egypt. The goal is to release hostages taken on Oct. 7 and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza. Blinken believes that the cease-fire framework outlined by President Biden in May is within reach, but some issues still need to be resolved. He compared the situation to being inside the 10-yard line and driving toward the goal line.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to visit Washington next week to address Congress, and President Biden may meet with him depending on his COVID-19 recovery. The focus of the discussions with Netanyahu will likely be on finalizing the cease-fire agreement and planning for what follows. Israel has been conducting an offensive against Hamas since the Oct. 7 attack, leading to the deaths of thousands of Palestinians.
Overall, the U.S. is committed to reaching a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas to bring stability and peace to the region. Discussions are ongoing to address the remaining issues and ensure a clear plan for the future.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
