The information was released by the Times of Israel newspaper, citing unidentified sources. The publication mentions that Blinken informed the Israelis during the visit that outstanding issues should be concluded by the beginning of next year, referring to the ongoing military operations in the enclave.
Previously, it was learned that he expressed to the Israeli government the American position that the conflict should be ended in weeks, not months.
However, Israeli authorities did not provide guarantees that they would end the war within that time frame. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza intensified on October 7, when the Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack once morest Israel from the Gaza Strip, breaching the border.
In retaliation, Israel carried out attacks, imposing a total blockade on Gaza, cutting off supplies of water, food and fuel.
On October 27, Israel began a ground incursion into the Gaza Strip with the stated aim of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing hostages. More than 17,700 Palestinians died.
On November 24, Qatar brokered an agreement between Israel and Hamas for a temporary truce, the exchange of some prisoners and hostages, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
The truce was extended several times. However, it expired on December 1st.
