ALBAWABA - After being delayed for a few days, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will land in Israel later today to discuss the latest updates regarding the ongoing ceasefire talks.
Blinken's visit comes as mediators from the US, Egypt, and Qatar had presented Hamas and Israel with a ceasefire proposal which is hoped to narrow down the "remaining gaps in the manner that allows for a swift implementation of the deal," the US Department of State said in a statement.
Describing the discussions, mediators released a statement asserting that the talks were conducted in a "positive atmosphere" and the outcome can be described as "serious and constructive,".
Al Araby Al Jadeed reported that a "technical" Israeli delegation will be visiting Cairo today to discuss an American proposal regarding the reopening of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza.
The report added that the delegation will not include any high-ranking Israeli officials, however, they will be holding meetings with officials from Egypt, Qatar, and the US.
Vedant Patel, State Department deputy spokesperson, stated that the "proposal would achieve a cease-fire in Gaza, secure the release of all hostages, ensure humanitarian assistance is distributed throughout Gaza, and create the conditions for broader regional stability,".
The talks were conducted with the presence of CIA Director William Burns, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel, and Israeli Mossad Director David Barnea.
According to media sources, Hamas has refused to engage in the recent discussions, insisting that Tel Aviv adhere to the agreements suggested in July based on a proposal approved by president Biden two months previously.
Al-Aqsa Flood operation against Israel
Hamas military group announced on Oct. 7 a military operation called "Al-Aqsa Flood" against Israel which is the biggest offensive in decades.
Palestinian fighters “infiltrated” Israel from the Gaza Strip and captured military bases and took hostages as photos and videos went viral online showing Hamas fighters on vehicles inside Israel and others paragliding into occupation territory.
In response, Israeli armed forces announced targeting Hamas positions inside the Gaza Strip. Thousands were killed, and dozens of thousands of others were injured in the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip.
The latest statistics by the Ministry of Health in Gaza revealed that the death toll from Israeli brutal pounding on the Gaza Strip since October 7 has soared to 40,074+ people, with more than 92,152+ injuries.
Since then, approximately 85% of Gazans have been displaced, all of whom are suffering from severe food insecurity, and the healthcare system has collapsed. Hundreds of thousands of people lack shelter, and aid trucks are entering the area at a lower rate than before the conflict began.
