US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who completed his contacts in Israel, held a press conference. Blinken stated that he was in the region to ensure the success of diplomatic initiatives to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, and that the latest ceasefire proposal took into account Israel’s security interests.
“A VERY CONSTRUCTIVE MEETING”
Blinken, who said he had a “very constructive meeting” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, announced that Netanyahu accepted the proposal presented by the US during negotiations in Doha, the capital of Qatar, last week to find a ceasefire formula that both Israel and Hamas could accept. Arguing that Hamas should accept this proposal as Israel did, Blinken said, “It is now Hamas’ duty to do the same.”
Blinken said the parties need to come together and complete the process of reaching a clear understanding on how they will implement the commitments they made under this agreement, adding, “The next important step is for Hamas to say yes.”
Blinken said he wanted the Israeli government to take action against Jewish settlers who attack Palestinians in the West Bank, adding: “We expect action to be taken to prevent such violence and for those responsible to be held accountable.”
Following his contacts in Israel, Blinken will visit Egypt and Qatar to discuss ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. (İHA)