BRUSSELS: US Urges Extended Ceasefires

In a pressing move to address the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated on Wednesday, November 13, the urgent need for Israel to facilitate increased relief efforts, calling for extended ceasefires to effectively deliver aid.

This appeal comes on the heels of a 30-day deadline imposed by the United States for Israel to enhance humanitarian access, which has now lapsed. The State Department has concluded that Israel is not obstructing aid, a stance that has raised eyebrows among humanitarian organizations that assert otherwise. Eight international aid groups have accused Israel of failing to fulfill U.S. expectations for improving the flow of assistance. Meanwhile, experts warn that famine could become a reality in parts of Gaza if conditions do not improve swiftly.

In his remarks to reporters in Brussels, Blinken acknowledged that Israel has made some progress in addressing humanitarian needs, but emphasized that sustained efforts are essential for meaningful impact. He specifically pointed out that Israel should revoke evacuation orders that prevent displaced individuals from returning home and reinstate commercial trucking operations into Gaza.

Blinken stated, “Perhaps most significantly, we need to see real and extended pauses in large areas of Gaza to facilitate the effective delivery of aid to those who need it most.”

As the conflict escalates, President Joe Biden continues to stand firmly behind Israel, especially following the October 2023 attacks by Hamas that resulted in 1,200 Israeli fatalities and the seizure of 250 hostages. The aftermath has been devastating, with more than 43,500 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, reportedly losing their lives and around 2 million people displaced, leaving much of Gaza in ruins.

Looking ahead, former President Donald Trump, a longtime advocate of Israel’s interests, has pledged his support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ambitions to dismantle Hamas. Trump’s administration has promised to deliver peace in the Middle East, though specific strategies remain unidentified.

Blinken expressed belief that Israel has achieved its objectives by dismantling Hamas' leadership and reducing the group's capability to execute large-scale assaults. He called for an urgent resolution to the ongoing conflict, stating, “This should be a time to end the war.”

While Hamas has not engaged in negotiations for peace, Blinken underscored the necessity of formulating a strategic plan for Gaza's future, a topic he has been actively discussing with leaders across the region. "We also need to ensure there’s a viable plan for what comes next,” he remarked, reinforcing the need for a roadmap that ensures Israel can withdraw from Gaza without the risk of Hamas reestablishing a foothold.

As the international community watches closely, the situation remains critical, and the push for immediate action has never been more essential. Will the U.S. succeed in brokering a lasting peace, or will the cycle of violence continue? Only time will tell.