US Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined the expected developments in the aftermath of the ceasefire and hostage deal. Blinken emphasized that the first step would be the cessation of firing, with both Hamas and Israel halting their attacks. Subsequently, Israel would withdraw its forces, hostages would be released, and prisoners would return from Israeli jails. Additionally, there would be a surge in humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of the affected population.
According to Blinken, these actions are projected to unfold over a six-week period following the agreement. He highlighted the importance of negotiating understandings during this timeframe to establish a permanent ceasefire. The goal is for Israel to completely withdraw its forces from Gaza, prevent the re-entry of Hamas, and establish governance, security, and reconstruction measures to facilitate progress in Gaza.
Blinken revealed that the groundwork for a permanent ceasefire had been laid over the past six to seven months through intensive and discreet efforts involving Arab partners and other stakeholders. He expressed hope that the ceasefire itself would serve as a catalyst for consensus-building on the necessary components of a post-conflict plan.
