In a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pushed for Hamas to agree to the most recent ceasefire proposal in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.
Blinken emphasized that the time has come for a deal that would result in the release of hostages and a temporary pause in the nearly seven-month-long war in the Gaza Strip.
Throughout the lengthy negotiation process, Hamas has insisted that the liberation of all hostages it is holding should lead to a permanent cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Netanyahu reiterated his determination to launch an offensive in Rafah, which he views as Hamas’ final stronghold in Gaza.
While acknowledging Israel’s significant concessions in the ceasefire talks, Blinken stated that it is now Hamas’ responsibility to finalize the agreement.
“There is no room for further debate. The terms of the deal are clear,” Blinken emphasized.