Blinken Urges Hamas to Sign Cease-Fire, Israel to 'Maximize' Aid.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Hamas leaders to agree to a cease-fire deal in Gaza, while also urging Israel to allow more humanitarian aid into the region. Blinken emphasized the need for Hamas to make decisions regarding the cease-fire and for increased humanitarian assistance to reach the people of Gaza. Qatar, which has been mediating between Israel and Hamas, was represented by its prime minister during Blinken's statement. The humanitarian situation in Gaza was described as "unacceptable and unsustainable," and President Joe Biden expressed concern that recent violence could hinder cease-fire negotiations. The US and Jordan have resorted to airdrops of assistance, but Blinken stressed the importance of maximizing all possible means to deliver aid to those in need. [Extracted from the article]

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