Israel rejects Blinken's request for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza

Israel has rejected a request from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken for a humanitarian pause in the conflict in Gaza. Blinken stated that he proposed the idea during talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials in Tel Aviv. However, Netanyahu quickly dismissed the idea, stating that Israel would not accept a temporary ceasefire without the release of hostages. Israel's offensive against Hamas continues, with its forces reportedly surrounding Gaza City. The US has been urging Israel to protect Palestinian civilians and increase aid flow into Gaza through humanitarian pauses, but Israel has raised concerns about Hamas taking advantage of such pauses. Blinken added that the US had advised Israel on minimizing civilian casualties while attempting to eliminate Hamas. He also emphasized the need for a two-state solution to ensure lasting security for Israel. Despite Israel's rejection of a ceasefire, Blinken reiterated US support for Israel's right to defend itself.