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Arab states are working on an initiative to achieve a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. This broader plan could potentially offer Israel a normalization of relations if it agrees to irreversible steps towards creating a Palestinian state.
According to a report in the Financial Times today, the initiative, which includes Western nations formally recognizing a Palestinian state or supporting full UN membership for Palestinians, aims to provide hope beyond economic benefits.
Saudi Arabia's potential formalization of ties with Israel is seen as a significant aspect of this plan. The initiative comes amid increasing international pressure on Israel to end its offensive in Gaza.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasizes the need for a Palestinian state to achieve regional peace, describing the current situation in Gaza as "gut-wrenching." However, challenges, including Israel's stance, present obstacles to securing a deal.
Source: Financial Times
![A Cypriot officer walks next of a sign bearing US and Cypriot flags at the site of a new helipad planing construction at the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari on April 17.[Petros Karadjias/AP]](assets/modules/wnp/articles/202604/28234/images/s_papandreou_airforce_base_cyprus.jpg)
