Blinken: Gaza negotiations could be the final opportunity for peace

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, currently in Israel to advocate for a Gaza truce, stated on Monday that the ongoing negotiations might represent the “best, maybe the last” opportunity to secure a ceasefire and ensure lasting peace.

Meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Blinken emphasized the urgency of finalizing the agreement to facilitate the return of hostages and achieve a ceasefire. He stressed the need to prevent any actions that could hinder the process or escalate the conflict.

Blinken, who is making his ninth visit to the Middle East since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, is set to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later on Monday. He highlighted the critical nature of the moment, cautioning against actions that might increase regional tensions, particularly in light of threats from Iran and Hezbollah.

President Herzog reiterated the Israeli desire to secure the swift return of hostages held in Gaza, underscoring the humanitarian importance of achieving this objective.