Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has “accepted” President Biden’s cease-fire plan to potentially end the 10-month war in Gaza, but the fate of the fighting lies in the hands of Hamas, according to Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
In a press conference from Israel, Blinken announced that the proposal, developed in collaboration with leaders from Qatar and Egypt, has been endorsed by Netanyahu. However, the onus now falls on Hamas to also agree to the terms laid out in the plan.
“The parties – with the help of the mediators, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar – have to come together and complete the process of reaching clear understandings about how they’ll implement the commitments that they’ve made under this agreement,” Blinken stated.
While specifics of the proposal were not disclosed, Netanyahu has not yet formally agreed to a cease-fire. Blinken emphasized that both Israel and Hamas face complex issues that require difficult decisions before a lasting peace can be achieved.
Blinken’s visit to Israel marked his ninth trip to the Middle East since the conflict began, with plans to continue to Egypt and Qatar in the coming days. Concerns remain high in the region over the potential for a broader regional conflict involving Iran and extremist groups like Hezbollah.
The proposal is expected to address the release of hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023, but it remains uncertain if it includes Israeli control over strategic corridors within Gaza, such as the Philadelphi Route. Israel asserts that the route is crucial for security, while Hamas opposes its inclusion in any peace agreement.
As negotiations continue, the region remains on edge, awaiting the outcome of the cease-fire talks and the potential for a lasting resolution to the conflict in Gaza.
