US Mediates Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Plan

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is actively engaging Egypt and Qatar to mediate a truce between Israel and Hamas, proposing a three-phase ceasefire plan. Both Israel and Hamas have yet to fully agree, with Israel confirming its support while Hamas remains hesitant, criticizing the proposal's ambiguities. President Joe Biden has accused Hamas of 'backing away' from the deal, adding domestic pressure on his administration due to the ongoing conflict and its political implications. Meetings in Cairo are planned to secure the return of hostages and bring humanitarian aid to Gaza. Blinken emphasized this might be the last opportunity to secure peace and prevent a broader regional conflict.