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Hamas Rejects US Proposal as Blinken Visits Israel for Gaza Hostage, Ceasefire Talks

Aug 19, 2024, 05:22 AM

Hamas has rejected a United States proposal aimed at facilitating a hostage and ceasefire deal in Gaza. This development comes as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Israel in a significant diplomatic effort by the Biden administration to finalize an agreement. Blinken, who arrived in Tel Aviv, emphasized that the ongoing negotiations might represent the last opportunity to secure the release of hostages and achieve a ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister has reportedly indicated that the chances of reaching a deal are not high. Blinken is scheduled to meet with Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, to discuss the ceasefire negotiations and address regional security concerns, including the situation at the Philadelphi Corridor.