What it’s about
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and war cabinet minister Benny Gantz regarding Israel’s proposed hostage deal, unveiled by US President Joe Biden last week. In his discussions, Blinken commended Israel’s readiness to conclude the deal, urging Hamas to accept it. These conversations are the first publicized between US and Israeli officials since Biden’s specific revelations about the proposal.
Why it matters
Blinken’s calls reaffirm the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s security and boost efforts to drive a solution that not only sees the release of hostages but also highlights Israel’s enhanced long-term security interests. The deal envisions a pathway for calm along Israel’s borders and a brighter future for Israelis and Palestinians, excluding Hamas from Gaza’s governance.
Israel’s stance
Top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Minister Benny Gantz, unveiled the proposal, underscoring their unified commitment to not cease the war until Hamas is entirely dismantled. Despite Biden’s support, concerns in Israel persist about how the security measures will be implemented and maintaining vigilance until Hamas is no longer in power.
The plan forward
Gallant shared a humanitarian approach with the war cabinet, suggesting the creation of “humanitarian bubbles” within Gaza. These areas, controlled by Palestinians without any terror affiliations, would fine-tune and distribute humanitarian aid while setting the ground for alternative governance in Gaza.
The voices from Israel
Even with ongoing negotiations, some Israeli leaders exhibit firm skepticism. Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli labeled the proposal inadequate, emphasizing continuing Hamas’s total defeat. Sderot Mayor Alon Davidi echoed Chikli’s sentiments, maintaining that only full eradication of Hamas can resolve the conflict and ensure long-term peace.
What’s next
While Biden and Blinken continue to push for a peaceful resolution that ensures complete security for Israel and releases the hostages, Israeli leadership stands firm on its national security strategy. The dialogue reflects robust US-Israel cooperation even amid internal Israeli trepidation about ceasefires without comprehensive peace measures.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.