US President Joe Biden remains hopeful for a cease-fire in Gaza, emphasizing that it is “still possible.” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel on Sunday for his ninth visit to the region since Israel’s offensive against Gaza began last October, following an attack by Hamas.
The US has been working on a three-phase plan proposed by Israel in May to address the conflict. This plan includes a cease-fire, a prisoner exchange, and the reconstruction of Gaza. The ongoing Israeli military operation has led to significant casualties and widespread devastation in Gaza.
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Hamas and other Palestinian groups have called for adherence to previously agreed terms and mechanisms for implementation rather than continuing negotiations amidst ongoing attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has referenced proposals that involve control over key crossings and corridors.
The US has put forward a new plan aimed at addressing gaps in the previous proposals to facilitate swift implementation. However, recent negotiations in Doha have not yet yielded significant progress.
