Blinken to arrive in Israel as U.S. pushes for Gaza ceasefire

U.S. Secretary of State to Visit Israel as Part of Diplomatic Push for Ceasefire #

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to arrive in Israel on Sunday as part of Washington’s efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and end the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Blinken’s tenth visit to the region since the war began in October last year follows bridging proposals put forward by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. While there is optimism about reaching a deal, officials acknowledge that there is still work to be done. Blinken is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister and other senior officials during his visit. Regional tensions have been heightened following threats of retaliation from Iran after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.