US urges Israel to embrace Palestinian statehood for peace
The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, emphasizes the necessity for Israel to change its approach towards the Palestinians and accept Palestinian statehood, especially since a ceasefire agreement in Gaza is close and currently awaits a decision from Hamas.
The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, called on Israel to change its approach towards the Palestinians, highlighting that annexation of territories without consequences is not feasible. Blinken stressed that Israel should accept Palestinian statehood, which is essential for stable peace in the Middle East.
During an address at the Atlantic Council, Blinken spoke about a near-complete ceasefire agreement in Gaza, awaiting a decision from Hamas. He emphasized that Israel cannot expect the Palestinians to accept a lack of national rights.
Blinken suggested that Israel should adopt a "time-limited, 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 the conflict in the Gaza Strip required
The US Secretary of State also referred to normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. An agreement is near but requires the resolution of the conflict in the Gaza Strip and the creation of a credible path towards establishing a Palestinian state.
Blinken criticized Israeli authorities for undermining the Palestinian Authority, which leads to ongoing violence. He noted that Israel's military actions in Gaza only strengthen Hamas, which gains new fighters.
According to Blinken, the current situation is a "recipe for perpetual rebellion and eternal war". He emphasized that the ceasefire agreement is "closer than ever" but requires final confirmation from Hamas.
