Hamas Accuses Blinken of Shielding Israel

In a recent article by the Palestine Chronicle, the Palestinian Resistance movement Hamas has accused US Secretary of State Antony Blinken of attempting to absolve Israel from obstructing the ceasefire process in Gaza. Hamas criticized Blinken’s comments as part of the US’s complicity in what it terms a “war of annihilation” against Palestinians. This comes after the UN Security Council adopted a resolution supporting a Gaza ceasefire proposed by US President Joe Biden. The proposed ceasefire plan includes a cessation of hostilities, a hostage-prisoner exchange, and the reconstruction of Gaza.
Hamas claims to have responded positively to ceasefire proposals, while accusing Israel of rejecting a permanent ceasefire, contrary to the UN resolution and Biden’s initiative. Blinken noted that Hamas suggested several changes to the ceasefire proposal, some of which were deemed workable. Despite reaffirming commitment in private meetings, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government have not publicly endorsed the ceasefire proposal, insisting that Israel’s campaign will continue until Hamas is defeated.
A senior Hamas leader mentioned that their requested changes were minor and primarily involved the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, the release of specific Palestinian prisoners, and the reconstruction of Gaza, among other demands. The conflict, ongoing since October 7, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with the Gaza Ministry of Health reporting over 37,000 Palestinians killed and nearly 85,000 wounded. The majority of casualties are said to be women and children. The conflict has also led to acute famine and the displacement of nearly two million Palestinians.
The ongoing violence has been described by some as genocide, with the International Court of Justice currently trying Israel on these grounds. The article underscores the grave humanitarian crisis and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.