Israel Accepts US ‘Bridging Proposal’ for Gaza Ceasefire: Blinken

In a significant development, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has announced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted an American “bridging proposal” aimed at securing a ceasefire deal in Gaza. Blinken, speaking after his meeting with Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, noted that the proposal is now awaiting approval from Hamas.

Describing the talks with Netanyahu as “positive,” Blinken highlighted that the Israeli leader remains committed to an American plan that also addresses Israel’s security concerns while negotiating the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Blinken warned that this may be the final opportunity to secure a ceasefire agreement, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The US is hopeful that an agreement could be reached soon, but both Israeli and Hamas leaderships remain skeptical, each accusing the other of obstructing progress.

Following the Tel Aviv meeting, Blinken is set to travel to Egypt and Qatar to further discussions on the potential deal. Netanyahu has also indicated that a negotiating team will be sent to Cairo for talks with Egyptian, Qatari, and US mediators later this week.

Meanwhile, reports from Gaza continue to highlight the deteriorating humanitarian situation amid ongoing Israeli military actions.