“Even in these very difficult times, we are determined to reach a ceasefire that brings the hostages home, and to reach it now.” And the only reason why this would not be achieved is “Hamas”, said A. Blinken, who met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Hamas plans to respond to an offer by Israel to temporarily halt its offensive in the Gaza Strip and release Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages taken on October 7.
During the visit, A. Blinken also strongly calls for increased aid to the Gaza Strip, where, according to the United Nations, there is a threat of famine due to a severe lack of food.
Later on Wednesday, he will meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and stop by Ashdod, a port near the Gaza Strip that Israel recently reopened to aid.
“We also have to focus on the people who are suffering from these mutual shootings,” said A. Blinken to I. Herzog.
On Tuesday, A. Blinken observed a Jordanian aid convoy that was heading to the reopened Erez border crossing point between Israel and the Gaza Strip.
