Blinken urges Israel to embrace peace with Palestinian statehood
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasizes the necessity for Israel to change its approach towards Palestinians and to accept Palestinian statehood. This is especially crucial as an agreement on a ceasefire in Gaza is close and currently awaits Hamas's decision.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called upon Israel to change its approach towards Palestinians, stressing that annexation of territories without consequences is impossible. Blinken noted that Israel should accept Palestinian statehood, which is essential for stable peace in the Middle East.
During a speech at the Atlantic Council, Blinken spoke about a ready agreement on a ceasefire in Gaza, which awaits Hamas's decision. He underscored that Israel cannot expect Palestinians to accept the lack of national rights.
Blinken pointed out that Israel should adopt a "time-bound, conditions-based" approach to Palestinian statehood. This would require financial support and security forces from other countries in the region to secure and rebuild the Gaza Strip.
Israel-Saudi Arabia relations. Resolution of Gaza Strip conflict required
The U.S. Secretary of State also addressed the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. The agreement is close but requires ending the conflict in the Gaza Strip and creating a credible path to the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Blinken criticized the Israeli authorities for undermining the Palestinian Authority, leading to prolonged violence. He emphasized that Israel's military actions in Gaza only strengthen Hamas, which gains new fighters.
According to Blinken, the current situation is "a recipe for unending rebellion and perpetual war". He highlighted that the agreement on a ceasefire is "closer than ever," but requires final confirmation from Hamas.
