In the Middle East, the suspense is total. The hope of seeing the situation resolved seems illusory for the moment. Negotiators are awaiting Hamas’ response to the truce proposals they have drawn up. The United States, through its Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, was determined that an agreement be concluded between the two warring parties. But we still sense hesitation on the part of the Palestinian leaders who are demanding a permanent ceasefire and a withdrawal of the forces of the Jewish state from the Gaza Strip.
Middle East: a truce difficult to negotiate
Israel and Hamas have each made progress in the negotiation. The agreement proposed by Cairo negotiators provides for a truce and the release of thirty-three Israeli hostages. This release must be done in exchange for that of several Palestinian prisoners. However, Hamas’ response is still awaited. One of its leaders says that it will be done precisely and clearly in a very short time. “ Hamas is open to all initiatives to end the war, but under certain conditions “. The American Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, put the full weight of the United States into the balance. He was in Israel and met Benjamin Netanyahu. He said the agreement had to be made and “ the only reason for this not to happen is Hamas » . However, he did not mention the statements of the Israeli Prime Minister who expressed his determination to carry out his military offensive in Rafah with or without American support. The UN Secretary General reiterated his opposition to this operation that he wants to carry out. The head of Egyptian diplomacy, who is leading the negotiations in Cairo, stressed the need for real flexibility on the part of both parties to reach this truce agreement demanded by all. Last night, we were there. The situation will perhaps be resolved in the coming hours.
Patrice RABE