Netanyahu Describes Discussions With Blinken as ‘Positive’

Benjamin Netanyahu has labelled his three-hour discussion with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken as “positive,” noting that it was “conducted in good spirit.”

This comes as pressure mounts for a ceasefire amid ongoing conflict.

Blinken, on his ninth visit to the region since the war with Hamas began in October, expressed optimism about a potential ceasefire following renewed talks in Doha last week.

Despite this, Hamas has dismissed claims of progress as “illusory,” highlighting ongoing disputes, particularly concerning whether Israeli troops will fully withdraw from Gaza.

Earlier, Blinken met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, calling the opportunity “probably the best, maybe the last” chance to secure a ceasefire and hostage release.

He emphasized the need to avoid any actions that could hinder the deal or escalate the conflict further.

Following his meeting with Blinken, Netanyahu’s office reaffirmed the Prime Minister’s commitment to the latest American proposal for hostage release, emphasizing that it must also address Israel’s security concerns.

The negotiations are based on a revised US proposal aimed at bridging gaps between Israel and Hamas, with hopes for an agreement by next week.

However, both sides remain skeptical.

Hamas has accused Netanyahu of creating “obstacles” and “new conditions” to “prolong the war,” holding him “fully responsible” for obstructing the agreement.

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A Hamas source mentioned that proposals include a reduced IDF presence along Gaza’s southern border, but Israeli sources suggest alternative measures could compensate for such a withdrawal.

The conflict, which began on October 7 with a major Hamas attack, has resulted in significant casualties, including 1,200 Israelis killed and 251 taken hostage.

The Hamas-run health ministry reports over 40,000 deaths in Gaza since then. A November ceasefire saw 105 hostages released in exchange for a temporary ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners.

Israel reports 111 hostages still held, 39 of whom are presumed dead.

US President Joe Biden recently stated that a deal is closer than ever, though past optimism has often fallen short.

Netanyahu noted that while some aspects of negotiations can be flexible, others are non-negotiable for Israel’s security and criticized Hamas for being “obstinate.”

A senior Hamas official described the mediators’ proposals as “disappointing,” reflecting the deep mistrust and obstacles to a breakthrough.

Additionally, the urgency of the negotiations may be influenced by US electoral politics.

The proposed deal, based on Israel’s May 27 proposal, includes three phases: a six-week period with Israeli withdrawal from Gaza’s populated areas and partial hostage exchanges; the release of all remaining hostages and a “permanent end to hostilities”; and the start of Gaza’s reconstruction and return of deceased hostages’ remains.

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health authority reported that Israeli air strikes killed at least 21 people, including six children, on Sunday.

The IDF stated that it destroyed rocket launchers in Khan Younis and killed 20 Palestinians in recent clashes.

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