TEL AVIV: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Israel to advocate for a truce in Gaza, stated on Monday that the ongoing negotiations might represent the “best, possibly last” chance to reach an agreement to end the conflict.
“This is a crucial moment—likely the most promising opportunity, and maybe the final chance—to secure the release of hostages, establish a ceasefire, and set everyone on a path toward lasting peace and security,” Blinken said during his meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Blinken indicated that President Joe Biden had tasked him with pushing the negotiations to a conclusion. “It’s time to finalize this agreement. It’s also essential to ensure that no actions are taken that could derail this process,” he said.
“We are focused on preventing any escalation, avoiding provocations, and ensuring that nothing undermines our efforts to finalize this deal or intensify the conflict,” Blinken added.
This visit marks Blinken’s ninth trip to the Middle East since October of last year. He is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later on Monday.
Describing the situation as “tense,” Blinken cautioned against actions that might increase regional tensions, especially in light of threats from Iran and the Lebanese group Hezbollah seeking revenge for the recent deaths of two militant leaders.
Herzog, who has a ceremonial role, emphasized the urgency of bringing the hostages held in Gaza back. “There is no more pressing humanitarian goal, and no more important cause, than securing the return of our hostages,” Herzog told Blinken.
