U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to travel to Egypt on Tuesday as part of ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. This comes after Blinken had a “very constructive meeting” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where he confirmed that Israel has accepted a U.S. “bridging proposal” for a truce. Blinken is scheduled to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in El Alamein, followed by a meeting with Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, in Doha.
The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are working together to broker a ceasefire in the 10-month conflict between Israel and Hamas. Blinken emphasized that this is a crucial moment, possibly the last opportunity, to secure the release of hostages, establish a ceasefire, and pave the way for enduring peace and security. Despite months of negotiations, no agreement has been reached, with both Israel and Hamas blaming each other for delays.
President Biden, facing domestic pressure over the situation in Gaza, acknowledged the concerns of pro-Palestinian protesters, noting that many innocent lives are being lost on both sides. The proposed ceasefire would involve a six-week freeze on fighting, during which hostages would be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners, and humanitarian aid would be allowed into Gaza.
Blinken’s visit and the ongoing negotiations are seen as critical steps in attempting to prevent a broader conflict in the Middle East.
