US Secretary of State Calls for Ceasefire in Israel-Hamas Conflict
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, currently on a tour of the Middle East, has submitted a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict linked to the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip.
Resolution Submission
In an interview with the Saudi Al-Hadath channel, Blinken stated, “We have in fact submitted a resolution which is now before the Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire linked to the release of the hostages, and we very much hope that countries will support it.”
Efforts for Peace
Blinken mentioned that a favorable offer was presented to Hamas, urging the group to consider the well-being of Gaza residents and reach an agreement for peace.
Blinken’s Middle East Tour
Antony Blinken embarked on his sixth tour of the Middle East, starting with discussions in Saudi Arabia. He met with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to address the urgent need to protect civilians in Gaza, increase humanitarian assistance, and prepare for post-conflict recovery.
During his tour, Blinken will also visit Egypt to meet with foreign ministers of six Arab countries and the envoy of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. His itinerary includes a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of the war cabinet.
Escalation of Violence in Northern Gaza
As Blinken’s visit coincides with intensified fighting in northern Gaza, Israeli forces reported a significant operation in the region, including the Al Shifa hospital. The military stated that around 90 gunmen were killed and 160 arrested in the raid, emphasizing the prevention of harm to civilians, patients, and medical staff.
Despite the military’s claims, Gaza’s Hamas-run government media office director, Ismail Al-Thawabta, disputed the reports, stating that those killed were wounded patients and displaced individuals within the hospital.
