Blinken to meet with Israelis as Hamas considers plan to free hostages in Gaza

[Social Media]

 

Amid ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is engaging in diplomatic talks with key stakeholders in the region. As Hamas reportedly considers a proposal for the release of hostages, Blinken is set to meet with Israeli officials to address this pressing issue.

 

Recent developments suggest a potential breakthrough in negotiations, with Hamas indicating a "positive" response to a proposed framework agreement regarding the hostages. However, details remain scarce, with Hamas issuing a brief statement acknowledging ongoing efforts and expressing appreciation for the involvement of various countries, including Egypt and Qatar.

 

Blinken's diplomatic efforts in the Middle East have included discussions with Qatari and Egyptian leaders, among others. In Doha, Blinken met with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani to explore avenues for resolving the hostage situation. Similarly, his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo focused on securing the release of the hostages and addressing regional stability issues, such as Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.

 

During these discussions, Blinken emphasized the United States' commitment to humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in Gaza and its rejection of any forced displacement of Palestinians. Additionally, Blinken reiterated America's support for establishing a Palestinian state that ensures peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.

 

Blinken's Middle East trip also included a meeting with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. In this meeting, Blinken emphasized the importance of addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza and preventing further escalation of the conflict.

 

Overall, Blinken's diplomatic efforts underscore the urgent need for a resolution to the hostage crisis in Gaza and highlight the United States' commitment to promoting stability and peace in the region. As discussions continue, hopes remain high for a positive outcome that will bring relief to the hostages and contribute to broader efforts for peace and security in the Middle East.

 

07.02.24

Source

 

[Bkk Brian]

This evening @IDFSpokesperson conveyed to the public the tragic news that “we have notified thirty-one families that their loved ones who are hostages are no longer alive and we have confirmed their deaths. To the rest of the families, we have provided all the verified information available to us about their fate and condition.”

 

https://twitter.com/LTCPeterLerner/status/1754980465675530355

 

 

Internal Israeli Report Says a Fifth of the Remaining Hostages Have Died.
The report’s estimate that 32 of the remaining 136 captives have not survived their ordeals is higher than previous numbers the Israeli authorities have disclosed.

https://archive.ph/P6uU3

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/06/world/middleeast/israel-gaza-hostages-dead.html