Blinken Urges Hamas to Accept Truce as Israel Warns of Continued Fight

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken is pressing Hamas to accept a proposed Gaza truce plan despite warnings from Israel that military operations against the Palestinian militant group will persist even after a ceasefire.

Mediators have put forward a truce agreement that would pause hostilities for 40 days and involve the exchange of numerous hostages for a greater number of Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas has indicated it will respond to the proposal shortly.

Speaking from Israel during his seventh visit to the Middle East since the conflict began in October, Blinken emphasized the importance of Hamas agreeing to the deal. “Hamas needs to say yes and needs to get this done,” he stated.

Blinken made these remarks following visits to areas affected by the conflict, including the Nir Oz kibbutz, which was targeted by Hamas, as well as Israel’s Kerem Shalom border crossing with Gaza and Ashdod port, which serves as a hub for aid shipments.

Despite these efforts, Hamas has expressed a negative stance on the truce proposal for the time being. However, discussions on the matter are ongoing, according to senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his commitment to military action, vowing to enter the southern Gaza city of Rafah with or without a ceasefire deal. This stance has raised concerns about the safety of civilians in the area.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned against an escalation of violence in Rafah, urging all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians.

As discussions for a potential ceasefire continue in Cairo, involving US, Egyptian, and Qatari mediators, the situation remains tense. Hamas has indicated a desire to end the conflict but insists on terms that guarantee the safety and well-being of Palestinians.

Despite international pressure and appeals for humanitarian aid, the conflict persists, with both sides holding firm on their positions. The coming days will be critical in determining the path forward for Gaza and the broader region.