GAZA WATCH: US Diplomatic Efforts Intensify as Blinken Meets Israeli Leaders

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Israel to revive the ceasefire talks amid ongoing conflicts involving Gaza and Hezbollah. This visit marks Blinken’s 11th trip to the region since the Gaza war began more than a year ago and follows recent escalations with Hezbollah in Lebanon. His agenda includes advocating for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and discussing long-term peace solutions, despite challenging circumstances on the ground.

Blinken’s Meeting with Israeli Leadership

• Blinken arrived in Tel Aviv on Tuesday amidst heightened tensions. His landing was met with Hezbollah’s missile launch toward the city, briefly shutting down Ben Gurion Airport.
• In Jerusalem, Blinken urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “capitalize” on Israel’s recent success in targeting Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Blinken stated, “We need to secure the release of all hostages and end the conflict in a way that ensures lasting security for both Israelis and Palestinians.”
• US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted Blinken’s call for increased humanitarian aidto Gaza, ensuring it reaches civilians. Miller added, “The need for sustained aid flow to Gaza is critical for civilian relief.”

Israeli Response to Blinken’s Push

• Netanyahu’s office acknowledged that Sinwar’s killing “could have a positive effect on hostages’ return and achieving war objectives.” However, there was no commitment to a ceasefire.
• The US State Department revealed discussions about implementing the 2006 UN resolution, which aimed to restore calm along the Israel-Lebanon border.

Hezbollah’s Reaction and Attacks

• While Blinken advocated for peace, Hezbollah rejected negotiations, maintaining its stance on continued aggression. The group also claimed responsibility for a drone attack on Netanyahu’s holiday home.
• Hezbollah intensified its offensive, launching medium-range missiles at Tel Aviv and Haifa, with Israel declaring a state of emergency.
• Al Jazeera’s Imran Khan noted that this marked the first use of medium-range missiles by Hezbollah, suggesting potential for further escalations.

Escalating Conflict in Lebanon

• On Tuesday, Hezbollah launched attacks on two Israeli military bases near Tel Aviv and a naval base in Haifa. An Israeli man was wounded in the Ma’agan Michael region.
• Meanwhile, Israel’s air raids on southern Beirut led to 18 deaths, including four children, and 60 injuries, as reported by Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health.

Prospects for a Ceasefire

• The backdrop of violence dims hopes for a ceasefire. Al Jazeera’s Mohammed Jamjoom observed, “The rhetoric from Israeli leadership remains defiant, making a peace breakthrough unlikely at this stage.”
• Former Israeli Justice Minister Yossi Beilin expressed hope that Blinken’s visit might “contribute to the option of a ceasefire,” adding, “It’s time to end this war; we are all paying a high price.”
• Blinken plans to visit Jordan on Wednesday, focusing on humanitarian aid for Gaza.

Source: Al Jazeera