US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Israel has agreed to withdrawals of IDF forces from Gaza as outlined in a recent proposal to move closer to a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had reportedly made comments about retaining certain corridors along the Egypt-Gaza border, but Blinken maintained that Israel agreed to the scheduled IDF withdrawals from Gaza. The ceasefire deal consists of three phases and would involve a full withdrawal of IDF forces from Gaza, although Israeli officials have emphasized the need for better control over the Egypt-Gaza border to prevent smuggling.
The location of troops in the Philadelphi corridor and the issue of Palestinian citizens being able to return home have been key points of contention in the ceasefire negotiations. Hamas has insisted on a full IDF withdrawal from Gaza and the return of citizens to their homes. Blinken confirmed that Netanyahu had agreed to the bridging proposal and the detailed plan for withdrawal in a meeting. However, a US senior administration official criticized Netanyahu’s reluctance to withdraw, calling the remarks unhelpful in reaching a ceasefire agreement. Blinken reiterated that the onus was now on Hamas to also agree to the latest proposal to address outstanding issues.
Negotiations between Hamas and Israel are ongoing, with top-level meetings in Doha followed by discussions to finalize the details of a potential agreement. While US officials emphasize the urgency of reaching an agreement, they acknowledge that a full agreement may not be achieved quickly. Blinken highlighted the importance of flexibility and implementation agreements once Hamas agrees to the proposal. He referenced the Tokyo Principles stating that the US would not accept a long-term occupation of Gaza by Israel.
Blinken concluded his trip to the region with meetings in Egypt and Qatar, describing the discussions as productive. Hamas released a statement criticizing Blinken and President Joe Biden for being misleading about the group’s position on a ceasefire agreement. A US official noted that Hamas had not provided a formal response to the bridging proposal and stressed the need for continued conversations on technical details and implementation commitments. Blinken emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the opportunity to secure the release of hostages and move towards enduring peace and security.
Further discussions are expected to address technical details and implementation commitments if both sides agree to the bridging proposal. The US remains committed to facilitating the negotiations and ensuring that all parties remain flexible in reaching a ceasefire agreement. The statement from Hamas accused Netanyahu of obstruction and reiterated their willingness to negotiate in a positive and responsible manner. Egypt and Qatar are involved as mediators and are eager for Hamas to respond to the proposal, with the expectation of continued conversations to address specific details and technical aspects of the agreement.
