2023-12-01 02:09:58
Washington: US Secretary of State Anthony Blinkon said that Israel must ensure the safety of Palestinian civilians if any kind of military operation resumes in Gaza. Blinken’s remarks come as a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Palestine is regarding to expire. Meanwhile, negotiations to extend the ceasefire are underway under the mediation of Qatar and Egypt.
The US still recognizes Israel’s right to self-defense. However, he said, Israel should be ready to follow international laws and protect civilians. Israel’s attacks on Gaza and other Palestinian territories have drawn international criticism.
Following this, US President Joe Biden gave indications that he was backing away from his previous position on the issue. The US President also tweeted that Hamas is afraid of the Israeli-Palestinian people living in peace. Biden’s new position was valued as a change in the previous position of not retreating from the Israeli attack.
Meanwhile, negotiations to re-extend the existing ceasefire are in full swing. Israel’s position is that there will be no ceasefire without the full release of the women and children held hostage by Hamas. Hamas also demands the release of all Palestinians in Israeli prisons in order to free women and children.
Hamas released 16 hostages yesterday, the sixth day of the ceasefire. 10 Israeli citizens, four Thais and two Russians were handed over yesterday. Israel also freed 30 Palestinian prisoners. Hamas had requested a four-day extension of the six-day temporary pause, which was due to expire on Thursday morning, but the extension was granted by one day.
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