Blinken calls on Hamas to accept ceasefire proposal without delay

(Patria) - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken yesterday called on the Palestinian movement Hamas to accept the proposed ceasefire with Israel "without further delay", which also partially relates to the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip.

Hamas announced earlier that it is studying the proposal.

- No more delays, no more excuses. Now is the time for action - Blinken told reporters in Jordan, shortly before leaving for Israel as part of his seventh regional tour since the start of the war.

Blinken believes that an agreement should be reached soon.

Asked about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's intention to launch a ground offensive on Rafah, he replied that Washington's priority is to reach a ceasefire agreement.

- That is the best, most effective way to alleviate suffering and create an environment in which we can hope to move towards something that is truly sustainable and brings lasting peace to people who desperately need it - Blinken added.