Blinken Warns This Could Be the Last Chance to Free Gaza Hostages and Secure Ceasefire

Department of Research, Strategic Studies and International Relations 20-08-2024

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized that the current situation may represent the final opportunity to secure the release of hostages in Gaza and establish a ceasefire. During a meeting in Tel Aviv with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Blinken described this moment as critical, potentially the last chance to bring hostages home, achieve a ceasefire, and set the stage for lasting peace and security. President Joe Biden sent Blinken to finalize this agreement, with Blinken stressing that “it’s time for this to get done.”

Blinken also warned against any actions that could jeopardize the process, highlighting the need to prevent any escalation or provocations that might derail the efforts or intensify the conflict further. This visit marks Blinken’s ninth trip to the Middle East since the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. Later that day, Blinken is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Blinken also acknowledged the heightened tensions in Israel, urging caution against actions that could worsen the situation, especially given recent threats from Iran and Hezbollah following the deaths of two militant leaders. President Herzog, whose role is largely ceremonial, expressed the urgency felt by Israelis for the swift return of the hostages held in Gaza since the onset of the conflict on October 7, describing it as the foremost humanitarian cause.