Breaking News: US Drafts UN Resolution for Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza
Amidst escalating tensions in Gaza, the United States has taken a significant step by drafting a new resolution at the UN Security Council, urging for an “immediate ceasefire.” This move comes as a response to mounting pressure on Israel to halt its military operations and facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territories.
Recent reports of an imminent famine in parts of Gaza have spurred the Biden administration to intensify efforts to secure at least a temporary cessation of hostilities. The administration has also issued warnings to Israel, cautioning against any potential ground offensive in southern Gaza.
The unveiling of the new draft resolution coincided with the release of satellite imagery by the UN, revealing that a staggering 35% of buildings in Gaza have been either damaged or destroyed during Israel’s military offensive. The toll on civilian lives has been devastating, with nearly 32,000 Palestinian casualties reported.
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This latest resolution marks a departure from past actions by the US, which had previously blocked attempts to pass ceasefire resolutions. The current draft underscores the urgency of the situation and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, contingent upon the release of hostages held in Gaza.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his tour of the Middle East, disclosed details of the resolution, emphasizing the need for international support. He reiterated the administration’s stance that Hamas militants must release the hostages seized during their attacks on Israel last October.
While the US has faced criticism for its previous vetoes at the Security Council, recent weeks have seen a shift in approach, with Washington exerting greater pressure on its ally Israel. Blinken expressed optimism about progress in indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas, facilitated by mediators from the US, Egypt, and Qatar.
Efforts to reach a consensus on the resolution have been ongoing, with US officials working on an alternative text since rejecting a previous draft in February. The proposed resolution focuses on supporting a six-week truce in exchange for the release of hostages, signaling the Biden administration’s commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
Although no vote has been scheduled yet, the new resolution sends a clear message to Israel about the growing frustration within the Biden administration over its handling of the conflict. The move also comes on the heels of warnings from the UN human rights chief about the potential war crimes being committed in Gaza.
Meanwhile, international efforts to expedite aid delivery to Gaza are underway, with delegates from 36 countries and UN agencies convening in Cyprus to discuss operational strategies. Under an agreement with Israel, aid shipments can undergo security inspections in Cyprus before reaching Gaza, streamlining the delivery process and ensuring timely assistance to those in need.
As discussions continue, there is hope for a coordinated effort to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and pave the way for a lasting ceasefire agreement. The US remains committed to advancing peace and stability in the region, underscoring the urgency of immediate action to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
