Cairo, 11 June 2024 (TDI): US Secretary Antony Blinken visited on his 8th diplomatic tour to the Middle East on 10 June 2024, since the war erupted between Israel and Palestine on 7 October. During this visit, Blinken urged Hamas to accept the deal proposed by the Biden administration.
On his eighth trip, Secretary Blinken called on the states in the region to pressure Hamas to approve the deal. The US has said Israel has accepted the deal although Israeli officials did not declare it formally.
Secretary Blinken said, “Met with Egyptian President El-Sisi to discuss securing an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, vital humanitarian assistance, and release of all hostages. He also underscored the urgent need to reopen the Rafah Border Crossing. Grateful to Egypt for its leadership role.”
Moreover, Blinken said, “My message to governments throughout the region, to people throughout the region, is – if you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say ‘yes’.”
US President Biden laid a proposal for a ceasefire in three stages on May 31. These three stages will lead to a permanent ceasefire. But Israel did not agree as they said, It will only agree to a temporary ceasefire until Hamas is defeated.
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On the other hand, Hamas responded, “Will not accept a deal that does not guarantee the war will end.”
On 10 June, the UNSC adopted the US-drafted resolution with 14 votes while Russia abstained from the draft.
Hamas welcomed the resolution and said they agreed to cooperate with mediators and implement the Plan. Palestine official Zuhri said, “Blinken’s comments were ‘an example of bias toward Israel’.”
Secretary Blinken met with Israeli officials
Secretary Antony Blinken left Cairo, Egypt to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant.
Secretary Blinken said, “Met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant to reiterate the US commitment to the deal on the table that would achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, secure the release of all hostages, and surge humanitarian aid.”
Spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “Blinken emphasized to Netanyahu the importance of a post-war plan for Gaza as well as the need to prevent the conflict from spreading.”
