May 1, 2024
1 min read

Blinken Holds Talks in Israel on Gaza Ceasefire

A meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is planned for later in Jerusalem….reports Asian Lite News

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Tel Aviv on Wednesday at the start of a fresh round of talks aimed at bringing about a ceasefire in the Gaza war.

The release of the hostages held by the Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement was currently a top priority, Herzog said at the meeting, according to his office.

“We’re determined to get a ceasefire that brings the hostages home, and to get it now. And the only reason that that wouldn’t be achieved is because of Hamas,” Blinken said.

Blinken said there was a proposal on the table: “And as we’ve said, no delays, no excuses. The time is now.”

“At the same time, even as we’re working with relentless determination to get the ceasefire that brings the hostages home, we also have to be focused on people in Gaza who are suffering in this crossfire of Hamas’s making, and so focused on getting them the assistance they need – the food, medicine, the water, the shelter – is also very much on our minds and in the work that we’re doing.”

Blinken said he planned to discuss these issues with Herzog.

A meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is planned for later in Jerusalem.

Blinken had previously spoken of a “very, very generous” proposal from Israel for a deal with Hamas.

As part of mediation efforts in Cairo, a response from Hamas is now being awaited.

Israel has announced a rapid start to the controversial offensive in Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip if no agreement is reached.

Blinken had previously also visited Saudi Arabia and Jordon as part of his multi-day trip.

ALSO READ: Iranian President Raisi Continues Tour in Sri Lanka

Previous Story

India-Sri Lanka Ferry Resumes May 13

Next Story

Austin pushes for more Patriot systems to Ukraine

Latest from -Top News

Op Sindoor Outreach: Russia Backs India on Terror

Russian side strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reiterated its solidarity with India in the global fight against terrorism in all its forms…reports Asian Lite News Denouncing the brutal

US Judge blocks dismantling of Education Department

A coalition of around 20 states and several teachers’ unions brought the case to court, arguing that the administration’s actions violated the constitutional principle of separation of powers…reports Asian Lite News A

Trump plans nuclear energy push

This move comes amid a surge in power demand driven by rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI)….reports Asian Lite News U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to sign a series of executive

Jaishankar Rejects Trump Mediation

EAM Jaishankar said, “This is something that only India and Pakistan need to settle directly….reports Asian Lite News External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has rejected US President Donald Trump’s claim that he

Now, Harvard can’t enrol international students

Over 6,700 international students were enrolled at the institution last academic year, university data shows, making up 27% of its student body The Trump administration has moved to end Harvard’s ability to
Go toTop

Don't Miss

US welcomes India joining Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate

Sherpas reiterated their commitment to the I2U2 partnership and reviewed

Australia confident of Trump supporting AUKUS sub deal

Marles reported that interactions with Trump’s camp have reassured Australia