Blinken: The truce is now in Hamas' hands

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday that it is up to Hamas to agree on reaching a ceasefire that would allow the introduction of a larger amount of humanitarian aid to Gaza and pave the way for talks on a sustainable “resolution” conflict.

Israel and Hamas blame each other for disagreements over an agreement that would require the militant group to release some of the hostages they still hold in exchange for a 40-day ceasefire. Palestinian prisoners in Israel would also be released.

Before meeting with Turkey's Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, Secretary Blinken was still pushing the parties to reach a ceasefire.

The question is Hamas. The question is whether Hamas will decide whether to have a truce for everyone's benefit,” stated Mr. Blinken.

“Topi is in their field. We're working with intensity and we'll see what they do. ”

Health authorities in Gaza say more than 30,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel launched the military campaign in response to Hamas' attack on October 7th in the southern part of Israel, during which Israel says 1,200 people were killed and another 253 were kidnapped.