Blinken Visits Israel Amid US Efforts for Gaza Ceasefire

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to arrive in Israel on Sunday as part of Washington's diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to end the 10-month-old conflict between Israel and Hamas. This visit marks Blinken's tenth trip to the region since the war began in October last year. The United States and Qatar have proposed bridging proposals intended to close gaps between the warring parties. Despite these efforts, a Hamas spokesman accused Israel of using the conditions to hinder progress.

The negotiations are occurring amid concerns of regional escalation, with Iran threatening to retaliate against Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Foreign ministers from the UK, France, Germany, and Italy have expressed support for the ceasefire talks, urging all sides to avoid any "escalatory action." Despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts, conflict persists, with at least 17 Palestinians killed and dozens wounded in an Israeli strike on the Gaza town of Zawayda.