Finish Gaza deal now, Israel opposition leader says in US
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Yair Lapid, Israeli opposition leader and former prime minister, urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to finalize a Gaza truce deal during his meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on September 16, 2024. Lapid emphasized the importance of bringing back hostages for Israel's existence and stated that political interests should be set aside. He described Hamas as a 'terrible organization' but insisted that more efforts should be made to secure a hostage deal. US President Joe Biden proposed a ceasefire plan on May 31, 2024, which includes a six-month fighting freeze and the release of captives. Netanyahu has rejected US claims that a deal is close, insisting on an Israeli military presence on the Egypt-Gaza border, which has caused tensions with Egypt, a key mediator. The Philadelphi Corridor and hostage release details remain major sticking points, according to State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

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https://www.nst.com.my/world/world/2024/09/1106668/finish-gaza-deal-now-israel-opposition-leader-says-us