U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken affirmed that mediators tirelessly work to bridge remaining gaps, aiming to reach an agreement on detainees and a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
Blinken stated, “We are intensively working with Israel, Qatar, and Egypt to bridge the remaining gaps and try to reach an agreement. Talks on this matter are ongoing, and I am confident they will continue in the coming days.”
The U.S. Secretary of State noted that Israel has sent a negotiating team, reflecting the possibility and necessity of reaching an agreement on a ceasefire, releasing detainees, and providing more humanitarian aid.
“We are committed to continuing to work diligently until this goal is achieved,” he added.
Regarding Rafah, Blinken stated that the United States needs to see a clear and executable plan for any Israeli operation there, including keeping civilians out of harm’s way.
He emphasized that President Joe Biden has been very clear, stating, “Given the presence of approximately 1.4 million civilians in Rafah, many of whom have fled from other areas in Gaza, we need to see a clear and executable plan for Rafah that includes keeping civilians out of harm’s way.”
He further added, “But also ensuring they receive proper care by providing shelter, food, medicine, and clothing… but so far, we have not yet seen such a plan.”
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had announced his approval of operational plans in Rafah, stating that the army is preparing to evacuate residents from there.
On another note, the Palestinian Presidency warned of the dangers of invading Rafah and urged the U.S. administration and the international community to intervene swiftly.
The Presidency’s statement clarified that the Israeli operation in Rafah constitutes a continuation of the displacement series.
