Blinken Urges Israel to Accept Time-Bound Path for Palestinian Statehood, Calls for Palestinian Authority to Govern Gaza Strip

Jan 14, 2025, 03:53 PM

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined a framework for a future Palestinian state during a recent address. He emphasized the need for the Palestinian Authority to take control of the Gaza Strip following a ceasefire, ensuring that Hamas does not govern the area. Blinken stated that reforms within the Palestinian Authority are essential for this transition. He urged Israel to accept a 'time-bound, conditions-based' path toward the establishment of a Palestinian state, advocating for a unified governance structure between the West Bank and Gaza. Blinken also called for international partners to assist in creating an interim administration in Gaza, which would operate under the oversight of a senior United Nations official. The interim security mission would involve forces from partner nations and vetted Palestinian personnel, aiming to stabilize the region post-conflict.