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Added on the 16/05/2021 17:31:45 - Copyright : AFPTV - First images
The United States says that a ceasefire voted by the United Nations can "only" be implemented once Hamas begins releasing hostages it still holds. SOUNDBITE
The Palestinian envoy in emotional remarks to the UN Security Council says the approval of a ceasefire resolution needs to be a "turning point" in ending the Gaza war. SOUNDBITE
The White House says it is "cautiously optimistic" on the chances for a Gaza ceasefire deal after a new proposal by Hamas but stressed that talks were far from over. "We're cautiously optimistic that things are moving in the right direction," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby tells reporters in a press briefing. SOUNDBITE
Israeli security forces block the road in front of anti-government activists and protesting relatives of Israeli hostages, in Tel Aviv, amid ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. IMAGES
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken calls on Hamas to accept an "immediate ceasefire" with Israel as the militants met Qatari and Egyptian mediators in Cairo. "We have an opportunity for an immediate ceasefire that can bring hostages home, that can dramatically increase the amount of humanitarian assistance getting to Palestinians who so desperately need it, and then also set the conditions for an enduring resolution," Blinken says as he meets the Qatari prime minister in Washington. "It is on Hamas to make decisions about whether it is prepared to engage in that ceasefire," he adds. SOUNDBITE