Israel Accepts U.S. Cease-Fire Plan

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that Israel accepted a U.S.-proposed framework to bridge differences for a Gaza cease-fire and hostage release, urging Hamas to also agree. Blinken's announcement came after a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with further negotiations planned in Egypt and Qatar to resolve remaining issues. Blinken emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling it potentially the last chance for peace and to prevent a broader regional conflict involving Iran and Hezbollah. Despite the proposal, Hamas remains skeptical, accusing the U.S. of bias toward Israel and rejecting new Israeli demands, particularly regarding control over strategic corridors in Gaza. The families of the hostages have directly appealed to negotiators, expressing broad public support for the cease-fire. The ongoing talks aim to avert escalation and achieve a lasting resolution, though tensions remain high following a recent bombing in Tel Aviv claimed by Hamas.