Official announcements from the US State Department, Israeli government, or major international news agencies

Blinken in Israel for Last Opportunity to Secure Gaza Ceasefire, Hostage Release

Aug 19, 2024, 05:41 AM

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Israel on Sunday night to push for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Blinken's visit, his ninth to the region since the conflict began, aims to secure a deal that would include a ceasefire and the release of 115 hostages held in Gaza. The negotiations are described as a 'decisive moment' and 'maybe the last opportunity' to achieve a resolution. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Hamas of being an obstacle in the talks, while Hamas has dismissed US proposals as 'American diktats.' Blinken is set to meet with Israeli leaders, including President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, before traveling to Egypt to continue discussions.