According to Sky News, Blinken’s message was unequivocal: “Hamas cannot and will not be allowed to decide the future for this region and its people.” This statement came amid discussions on the ceasefire deal proposed by President Joe Biden at the end of May.
Despite the urgency for peace, Blinken noted that Hamas had suggested several amendments to the US-proposed framework. “We discussed those changes last night… some of the changes are workable, some are not,” he stated, highlighting the complexity of the negotiations.
A deal that closely resembled Hamas’s own proposal from May 6 was within reach, yet Hamas’s response was not forthcoming.
“A deal was on the table. Hamas could have answered with a single word: ‘Yes’,” Blinken said. Instead, their delay and additional demands have led to a stark outcome: “As a result, the war will go on.”
Blinken remained hopeful, believing that the differences could be reconciled. “Look, Israel accepted the proposal, Hamas didn’t… if Hamas continues to say no then it will be clear that they have made a choice to continue the war that they started.”
The deal remains available, but time is of the essence. “We’ll have to see over the coming days… [but] the longer this goes on, the more people suffer,” he warned.
Looking forward, Blinken announced that the US State Department would be developing strategies for the “day after” policy, sending a clear message that the future of the region cannot be dictated by Hamas alone.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
