U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas is close to being achieved after extensive negotiations involving the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. The cease-fire is intended to release hostages held since October 7 and increase humanitarian aid in Gaza. Blinken expressed optimism that an agreement is nearing completion and emphasized the importance of resolving remaining issues to establish lasting peace and stability in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit Washington on July 24 to discuss the cease-fire agreement and the next steps for building peace. Biden is expected to meet with Netanyahu, pending the president’s recovery from COVID-19. Blinken emphasized the need for a clear plan for future actions following the cease-fire and indicated that discussions with Netanyahu would likely focus on this matter.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated following an attack by Hamas fighters that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the holding of over 250 hostages on October 7. Israel has since launched an offensive that has led to the deaths of at least 38,848 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. The goal of the cease-fire negotiation is to end hostilities, secure the release of hostages, and pave the way for lasting peace in the region.
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