On August 20, 2024, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Monday (August 19) that Israel has accepted a proposal to bridge the differences to facilitate a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. Blinken urged Hamas to do the same, but did not specify whether the issues of concern to the militant organization have been resolved.
According to the Associated Press, after a two-and-a-half-hour meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken made a statement later on Monday and will further negotiate in Egypt and Qatar. These three countries have spent several months mediating, trying to reach an agreement to end the Gaza conflict, but negotiations have repeatedly stalled.
Blinken told reporters, “In a very constructive meeting today with Prime Minister Netanyahu, he confirmed to me that Israel supports this proposal to bridge the differences.”
“The next important step is for Hamas to say ‘yes,'” he told reporters.
However, Blinken added that even if Hamas accepts the proposal, negotiators will work in the coming days to “reach a clear understanding on implementing the agreement.” He pointed out that there are still “complex issues” that require “difficult decisions from leaders,” but did not provide specific details.
Hamas has expressed losing trust in the United States as a mediator, accusing American negotiators of siding with Israel when the militant group rejected new demands put forward by Israel. Blinken did not reveal whether the proposal addressed Israel’s request to control two strategic passages within Gaza (which Hamas claims is impossible) or other long-standing issues that have plagued negotiations.
Netanyahu said he had a “good and important meeting” with Blinken and appreciated the “understanding shown by the United States for our crucial security interests and the joint efforts we are making for the release of hostages.” He added that they are working to ensure that as many hostages as possible are released in the first phase of the ceasefire agreement.
This is Blinken’s ninth visit to the Middle East since the Gaza conflict began. Days ago, the United States and other mediators expressed optimism about reaching a ceasefire agreement. However, Hamas strongly expressed dissatisfaction with the latest proposal, and Israel also stated its unwillingness to compromise on certain issues.
Earlier on Monday, Blinken stated that this is a “decisive moment” and “perhaps the last chance” to release hostages and ensure a ceasefire.