Antony Blinken’s Jerusalem Visit: Can He Bridge the Divide Between Israelis and Palestinians?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting Israel and the Palestinian territories in an effort to revive the ‘moribund’ peace process. The visit comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proposed a judicial overhaul that has been met with criticism from the Palestinian Authority.

During his visit, Blinken has called for a two-state solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, but has been met with skepticism from both sides. He has also criticized Israeli settlements in the West Bank, while stressing US support for Israel.

Netanyahu has said he is open to hearing ‘counter offers’ to the proposed judicial overhaul, which would give him more control over the judicial system. He has also said he is willing to work with the US on a peace deal that would benefit both Israelis and Palestinians.

The visit comes as the situation between Israel and the Palestinians remains tense, with Palestinians feeling that their daily lives have not changed despite diplomatic efforts. Israelis, meanwhile, fear potential violence if a peace deal is not reached.

It remains to be seen if Blinken’s visit will lead to a breakthrough in the long-running conflict, or if it will be just another failed attempt at finding a lasting peace.