US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to arrive in Cairo at a critical moment as Washington aims to pressure Hamas and Israel into a ceasefire in Gaza, preventing the conflict from escalating into Lebanon. Blinken’s visit, his eighth since the outbreak of violence in October, will also include stops in Israel, Jordan, and Qatar this week.
President Joe Biden recently outlined a three-phase ceasefire proposal from Israel, focusing on an end to hostilities, the release of hostages and prisoners, and Gaza’s reconstruction. The conflict has resulted in over 1,200 deaths and hundreds of hostages held by Hamas, prompting severe Israeli retaliation.
Blinken’s discussions will entail ceasefire agreements, the release of hostages, and preventing further escalation. Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz’s resignation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government adds a layer of complexity to the situation, potentially influencing the government’s composition and next steps in the conflict.
Talks will also address the ongoing conflict with Lebanon’s Hezbollah, posing a dangerous threat of escalation. The international community, including the US and Qatar, is working towards a comprehensive solution to end the violence.
Source: Reuters
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