The U.S. is working with Egypt and Qatar to finalize this plan, which seeks to establish a truce between Israel and Hamas and secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas. No specific date has been set for the proposal's release.
While in Cairo, Blinken will also co-chair the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue alongside Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. The talks will focus on achieving a cease-fire in Gaza, ensuring the release of hostages, alleviating the humanitarian crisis, and promoting regional security. However, Blinken's trip will not include meetings in Israel.
Earlier, Blinken met with Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid in Washington. Lapid emphasized the need to secure a hostage deal and end the conflict in Gaza, urging the U.S. to prevent Hamas from avoiding negotiations.
Sigrid Kaag, a senior U.N. official, highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She called for an immediate cease-fire, the release of hostages, and unhindered access for aid deliveries. The number of trucks delivering aid to Gaza has significantly decreased in recent months due to ongoing hostilities and delays.
On the military front, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Monday killed 16 people, while the Israeli Defense Forces targeted Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. Tensions remain high along the Israel-Lebanon border. Additionally, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launched drone and missile attacks on Israel, further escalating the conflict.
Hamas leader Yehya Sinwar, on Monday, expressed confidence in Hamas' ability to continue the fight against Israel, while analysts suggest that Iranian support for groups like the Houthis could lead to a broader regional conflict. Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., U.K., and EU, has been at the center of the ongoing violence that began with its attack on Israel in October, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
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