US officials prepare for final round of hostage and ceasefire negotiations with retaliatory attacks on the horizon – Washington Examiner
U.S. officials are gearing up for the final round of negotiations concerning hostages and a ceasefire in the Middle East, with the deadline approaching on August 15. Key figures such as Secretary of State Antony Blinken, diplomat Brett McGurk, and CIA Director William Burns are scheduled to visit the region to participate in these critical discussions. The success of these negotiations could potentially reshape the current tensions in the Middle East, especially in light of ongoing retaliatory attacks. Recently, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) conducted an airstrike targeting a compound in Gaza that reportedly housed a mosque and a school, contributing to the escalating situation. Negotiators aim to finalize details before the talks begin on Thursday, with outcomes heavily influenced by the timing and nature of retaliatory measures taken post-negotiation efforts.
US officials prepare for final round of hostage and ceasefire negotiations with retaliatory attacks on the horizon
Diplomats and state officials are preparing to meet their Middle East counterparts this week as the Aug. 15 negotiation deadline nears.
Negotiators are rushing to tie up any loose ends before the final round of negotiations begins Thursday. If the deal succeeds, it could signal a drastic change in the Middle East, where tensions have been steadily rising.
Officials planning to visit the region include Secretary of State Antony Blinken, diplomat Brett McGurk, and CIA Director William Burns, according to Axios. Their meetings will depend on if expected retaliatory attacks come after recent events.
The IDF conducted an airstrike overnight that targeted a compound housing a mosque and school in Gaza. Reports differ over how many were injured and killed as a result: the IDF says three dozen, mostly militants, were killed; local officials say 100 Palestinians were killed. The U.S. is also expecting retaliation against Israel from Iran for the assassination of a top Hamas leader, and from Hezbollah for the assassination of a top commander.
Leaders traveling to the region this week are expected to discuss the security of the Egypt-Gaza border, reopening the Rafah border crossing, and preventing weapons smuggling. These details will be critical to a successful hostage and ceasefire deal, according to the outlet.
Securing a deal will go far with Biden’s legacy, and could help Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the White House. On recent event stops, she’s been repeatedly interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters.
During an event in Michigan, Harris paused the rally and said, “You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I’m speaking.” After, pro-Palestinian groups criticized her for being too harsh.
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