A recent update from Bloomberg on December 1, 2023, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attributed the breakdown of the Gaza truce to Hamas, citing the group’s rocket attacks on Israel as a violation of the agreement. On a diplomatic tour in the Middle East, Blinken expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense while also calling on the Israeli government to exercise restraint to prevent civilian casualties in their efforts against Hamas in Gaza.
During a press conference in Tel Aviv, Blinken emphasized the fragility of the truce and its significance in addressing the ongoing cycle of violence and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He condemned Hamas for resuming rocket attacks on Israeli cities, putting innocent lives at risk and hindering the prospects for peace.
Blinken highlighted the US commitment to collaborating with regional and international partners to restore calm, prevent further escalation, and provide humanitarian assistance and reconstruction aid to the people of Gaza, who have borne the brunt of the conflict.
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The Secretary of State reiterated the US stance on the two-state solution as the most viable path to ensuring the long-term security of Israel and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinians. He stated, We believe that both Israelis and Palestinians deserve to live in dignity, security, and freedom. The best path, perhaps the only one, is that of two states for two peoples.
Blinken’s statements followed meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Netanyahu insisted on no temporary ceasefire until all hostages held by Hamas were released, emphasizing the need for Hamas disarmament and the restoration of Palestinian Authority control over Gaza.
Abbas welcomed Blinken’s visit as a sign of US engagement and support, condemning what he termed Israel’s genocide in Gaza and accusing it of violating international law and human rights. He asserted that the PA would only assume full responsibility for Gaza within the framework of a comprehensive political solution covering the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza.
The recent conflict, initiated by Hamas on October 7, has resulted in a significant loss of life, with over 9,000 Palestinians and 300 Israelis reported dead. Concerns about a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, where more than half the population is displaced and essential services disrupted, have prompted calls from the international community for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to the October 27 truce terms, including the opening of border crossings and facilitating humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts.
