Palestine Amid Ceasefire Plans”/>
The United States (US) announced additional aid worth US$135 million (equivalent to IDR 2.1 trillion) to Palestine. The assistance was revealed in line with the latest diplomatic efforts to encourage a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
This was conveyed by US Minister of Foreign Affairs Antony Blinken at a press conference in Doha, Qatar, with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Friday (25/10) WIB. “We announced an additional US$135 million in humanitarian aid, water, sanitation, maternal health for Palestinians in Gaza, in the West Bank, as well as in the region,” Blinken said as quoted by VOA.
In the last year, the US contributed around US$1.2 billion (around Rp. 18.8 trillion) to Palestine. However, US aid to Palestine is very far compared to the amount of US aid to Israel. At the end of last month alone, when Israel massively invaded Lebanon, the US sent aid amounting to US$8.7 billion (around 131.6 trillion).
Currently, the US is also encouraging Israel to reopen plans for negotiations with Hamas for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. The negotiators will reportedly meet in the coming days in Doha. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu sent the director of the Mossad intelligence agency, David Barnea.
Separately, a Hamas delegation reportedly met with Egyptian intelligence in Cairo to discuss plans for negotiations. “Referring to negotiators coming back together, what is specifically meant is negotiations on the return of hostages and a ceasefire for Gaza,” Blinken said.
The US is pushing for Hamas – Israel negotiations with the momentum of the death of Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar. However, it is still unclear whether Hamas is ready to be involved in future negotiations. Qatar said it was continuing to maintain communication regarding the process taking place in Egypt.
“We are coordinating closely with Egypt on every kind of initiative that will come up on the table. Today there are ongoing discussions between Egypt and Hamas. We hope that these discussions will produce something positive,” said Qatari PM Al Thani. (M-1)
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Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Middle East Affairs Expert
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. The recent announcement of US aid to Palestine has sparked global interest. Can you explain the significance of the US providing an additional $135 million in humanitarian aid amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict?
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me. The announcement of this additional aid is significant for several reasons. Firstly, with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalating, this funding is intended to address urgent needs such as water, sanitation, and maternal health. It demonstrates the US’s commitment to providing relief to Palestinians during a critical time.
Editor: The announcement was made by Secretary of State Antony Blinken alongside Qatari leaders. How crucial is Qatar’s involvement in these discussions?
Dr. Thompson: Qatar plays a pivotal diplomatic role in the region, serving as a mediator between various parties, including Hamas. Its involvement could facilitate greater dialogue and possibly pave the way for a ceasefire. The presence of Qatari leadership alongside US officials underscores the collaborative effort to navigate this complex situation.
Editor: While the US is ramping up its aid to Palestinians, we see a stark contrast with the aid provided to Israel, which totaled $8.7 billion recently. What does this disparity signify?
Dr. Thompson: This disparity highlights the longstanding complexities in US foreign policy in the region. While the US supports Israel with substantial military aid, it’s additionally attempting to address humanitarian needs for Palestinians. However, the unequal distribution may raise questions about the US’s intentions and effectiveness in promoting peace.
Editor: There are reports of negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding a potential ceasefire. What impact could these negotiations have on the current situation?
Dr. Thompson: If successful, these negotiations could lead to a ceasefire, providing a much-needed reprieve from violence and allowing humanitarian aid to flow more freely. However, the likelihood of success depends on various factors, including the willingness of both parties to compromise and the influence of external mediators like the US and Qatar.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for your insights on this pressing issue. As the situation unfolds, we hope for a peaceful resolution.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you. The hope for peace and humanitarian assistance is something we all share.
Ee a stark contrast with the aid provided to Israel, which totaled $8.7 billion last month alone. What implications does this disparity have on the peace process and the perception of US involvement in the conflict?
Dr. Thompson: This disparity raises questions about the US’s impartiality in the conflict. Historically, the US has been viewed as a key ally of Israel, and the scale of aid reflects that longstanding relationship. However, the increased focus on humanitarian aid to Palestinians may signal an attempt to balance perceptions and address the dire humanitarian needs in Gaza. This could be a strategic move to garner support for a ceasefire and encourage negotiations, but it remains to be seen if it will lead to any substantial changes in the peace process.
Editor: Given the recent developments, including meetings between Hamas and Egyptian intelligence, how do you see the potential for a ceasefire evolving in the coming weeks?
Dr. Thompson: The ongoing efforts, including the dialogue facilitated by Egypt and Qatar, provide a glimmer of hope. However, the situation is incredibly complex, and political dynamics can shift rapidly. The US’s push for negotiations, especially in light of leadership changes within Hamas, could influence outcomes. If both sides are willing to engage sincerely in discussions about hostages and a ceasefire, we might see some progress, but skepticism remains high due to the historical context of these negotiations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for your insights. Your expertise helps clarify the intricate dynamics at play in this critical region.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me. It’s essential we continue to monitor developments and advocate for humanitarian needs amidst such conflicts.