USA: We are against Israel's permanent occupation of Gaza.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that they are in the final stretch to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and that they expect Hamas to agree to the deal, while also expressing their opposition to Israel's permanent occupation of Gaza.

Speaking live on the American MSNBC channel, Blinken evaluated the latest situation regarding Gaza. He mentioned that they have been in talks with all regional actors, including Turkey, to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and that the ball is now in Hamas's court, adding that they are waiting for Hamas to make a decision.

"PRESSURE MUST BE APPLIED FOR HAMAS TO SAY YES"

Blinken expressed that all eyes are on Hamas with the significant withdrawal of Iran and Hezbollah, stating, "I think there is finally pressure on Hamas to say yes. Will Hamas make a decision and respond with yes? We are discussing this issue with all our partners to apply the necessary pressure for Hamas to say yes."

Recalling that he also spoke with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on this matter, Blinken said, "We want to bring the hostages back home. We want a ceasefire to be established so that people in Gaza can finally find relief."

"WE ARE AGAINST ISRAEL'S PERMANENT OCCUPATION OF GAZA"

On the other hand, Blinken emphasized that they are against any form of permanent Israeli occupation in Gaza and that it is not in Israel's interest.

Blinken commented, "Another alternative is Israel's permanent occupation of Gaza, and we reject this because it fundamentally does not serve Israel's interests." The U.S. Secretary stated that after a ceasefire is established in Gaza, they will have the opportunity to discuss and take steps in a more relaxed environment regarding what kind of process can be initiated there, which would be healthier for both Israel and the Palestinian side.