Blinken's Diplomatic Push for Gaza Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on a diplomatic mission to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. Despite his efforts, Hamas accuses Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu of undermining the negotiations. Blinken's tour includes meetings in Israel and Egypt, amid ongoing violence and complex diplomatic hurdles.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Tel Aviv on Sunday, embarking on another Middle East tour to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza. However, Hamas quickly cast doubt on the mission by accusing Israel of undermining his efforts. The militant group held Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responsible for delaying an agreement and exposing Israeli hostages in Gaza to the same aggression faced by Palestinians.

This marks Blinken's ninth trip to the region since the war began in October. On Monday, he is set to meet with senior Israeli leaders, including Netanyahu, before continuing his diplomatic journey to Egypt. The talks aiming for a truce and the return of hostages held in Gaza have reached a critical juncture, a senior Biden administration official stated en route to Tel Aviv.

Violence continues in Gaza, with at least 21 people killed by Israeli strikes on Sunday. Palestinian health authorities reported that the victims included six children and their mother. Meanwhile, intense diplomatic negotiations persist, with hopes for a breakthrough amid escalating tensions and complex geopolitical stakes.

(With inputs from agencies.)