By DOHA, Qatar — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his ninth visit to the Middle East since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on Tuesday, failing to secure a major breakthrough in ceasefire negotiations. Blinken emphasized the critical nature of the situation, stating that “time is of the essence” in reaching an agreement.
Following meetings with mediators in Egypt and Qatar, Blinken told reporters in Doha, “We need to get a ceasefire and hostage agreement over the finish line, and we need to do it now.” His comments reflect growing international concern over the prolonged conflict and its humanitarian consequences.
The urgency of Blinken’s mission has been underscored by recent developments, including the targeted killings of militant leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah in Iran and Lebanon, both attributed to Israel. These incidents have raised fears of a potential wider regional conflict.
Despite the lack of a breakthrough, Blinken reported that Israel has accepted a U.S.-backed proposal aimed at bridging gaps with Hamas. He stated that the focus now turns to securing Hamas’ agreement and ensuring both sides concur on key implementation details.
The so-called bridging proposal, put forth by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, reportedly provides clear guidelines on the schedule and locations of Israeli military withdrawals from Gaza. However, few specifics have been made public.
Hamas responded to the latest proposal with skepticism, characterizing it as a reversal of previously agreed terms and accusing the U.S. of acquiescing to new conditions from Israel. The U.S. has not immediately responded to these claims.
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with right-wing groups representing families of fallen soldiers and hostages in Gaza. These groups, which oppose a ceasefire deal, reported that Netanyahu assured them Israel would not abandon two strategic corridors in Gaza that have been obstacles in negotiations. Netanyahu’s office did not comment on this account.
The ongoing conflict has had devastating consequences. Israel’s military announced the recovery of bodies of six hostages taken in Hamas’ October 7 attack, bringing fresh grief to many Israelis. The war has resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, and has caused widespread destruction and displacement in the territory.
Humanitarian conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate, with aid groups warning of potential disease outbreaks. Recent Israeli airstrikes have resulted in further civilian casualties, including an attack on a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City that killed at least 12 people.
