Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit Israel, Egypt, Qatar, and Jordan from June 11 to June 13 as the Biden administration pushes for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The trip comes at a critical moment as tensions remain high following weeks of conflict that has resulted in significant loss of life and destruction.
Blinken's itinerary includes meetings with Israeli, Egyptian, Qatari, and Jordanian leaders to discuss the ongoing hostage situation and the need for a lasting peace agreement. The United States is urging Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal that would secure the release of all hostages in exchange for concessions from Israel.
The proposed deal includes several phases: In phase one, Israeli authorities would release Palestinian security prisoners, withdraw troops from Gaza population centers, allow unrestricted return of Palestinians to all areas of the strip, and facilitate daily entry of 600 trucks of humanitarian aid. During this phase, parties would launch talks on terms for a permanent ceasefire.
If Hamas adheres to the agreement in phase one, a six-week phase two could commence with Hamas releasing remaining living Israeli hostages and young men/male soldiers in exchange for an agreed-upon number of Palestinian security prisoners. Israel would withdraw completely from Gaza during this period.
During the six-week phase three, Hamas would release remaining bodies of hostages it is still holding while Israel allows the commencement of an internationally backed Gaza reconstruction plan.
Blinken's visit to Egypt and Qatar will also focus on their roles as mediators in the conflict. The United States has been urging these countries to pressure Hamas to accept the deal, with threats of expulsion if they fail to do so.
The situation remains volatile, with both sides continuing military actions despite ongoing negotiations. Blinken's visit is an attempt to bring all parties back to the table and find a peaceful resolution.
