Blinken's statement on Israel: We are opposed

Appearing live on the American channel MSNBC, Blinken evaluated the latest situation regarding the Gaza agenda. Stating that they are in talks with all actors in the region, including Turkey, to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and that the ball is now in Hamas's court, Blinken noted that they are waiting for Hamas to make a decision.

ALL EYES TURNED TO HAMAS

Expressing that with Iran and Hezbollah largely out of the picture, all eyes have turned to Hamas, Blinken said, "I think there is pressure on Hamas to finally say yes. Will Hamas be able to make a decision and give a yes answer? We are discussing this issue with all our partners to ensure the necessary pressure on Hamas to say yes."

"WE WANT TO BRING THE HOSTAGES HOME"

Reminding that he also discussed this issue with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Turkey, Blinken said, "We want to bring the hostages home. We want a ceasefire to be achieved so that people in Gaza can finally find relief."

"WE REJECT A PERMANENT OCCUPATION IN GAZA"

On the other hand, Blinken emphasized that they are opposed to any form of permanent Israeli occupation in Gaza and that this is not in Israel's interest. Blinken commented, "Another alternative (for Israel) is a permanent occupation of Gaza, and we reject that because it is fundamentally not in Israel's interests."

The US Secretary stated that after a ceasefire is achieved in Gaza, they will have the opportunity to discuss and take steps in a more comfortable environment regarding what process might be implemented there, and that this would be healthier for both the Israeli and Palestinian sides.