Blinken Urges Strategic Shift as Israel Faces Gaza Stalemate

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken calls on Israel to capitalize on the opportunity to end its ongoing conflict with Gaza by focusing on diplomacy and humanitarian aid following the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. He stresses the importance of returning hostages and maintaining humanitarian efforts.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israel on Wednesday to seize the opportunity to end the long-standing conflict in Gaza after the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and the crippling blow to the group's capabilities over the past year.

Blinken commended Israel for its efforts to prevent a repeat of the October 7, 2023 assault that spurred its Gaza campaign. He emphasized the importance of returning the remaining 101 Israeli and foreign hostages and ending the hostilities as a lasting strategic move, ahead of his Riyadh visit.

Blinken highlighted the dire conditions for Gaza's displaced residents and the need for sustained humanitarian aid. He reiterated U.S. opposition to any Israeli occupation of Gaza, citing assurances from Prime Minister Netanyahu against such plans despite internal pressures for Jewish settlers' return.

(With inputs from agencies.)