Biden Invites Hamas to Truce in Gaza Amidst New UN Resolution
American President Joe Biden has called on Hamas to prove its commitment to a truce in the Gaza Strip by accepting the agreement proposed in the US plan, which was approved by the United Nations (UN) Security Council. Biden emphasized that the agreement is an opportunity for Hamas to demonstrate its intentions, stating on his social media, 'Hamas says it wants a truce; this agreement is an opportunity to demonstrate that they mean business.'
The UN Security Council adopted the American resolution supporting the ceasefire plan, receiving 14 votes in favor, with Russia abstaining. The resolution calls for a six-week ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas, and the Israeli withdrawal from populated areas in Gaza. It further stresses that both parties must implement the terms without delay and without conditions.
Hamas has expressed a willingness to work with mediators to begin indirect negotiations on the ceasefire plan. The group welcomed the resolution and reiterated its demands for a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists on continuing the war until Hamas is destroyed, potentially complicating diplomatic efforts led by the US.
Blinken's Diplomatic Push and On-the-Ground Realities
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been dispatched to the Middle East in a bid to galvanize support for the ceasefire proposal. Beginning his trip in Cairo, Blinken met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi before traveling to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Blinken’s visit, part of a broader American diplomatic campaign, aims to focus on Biden’s peace plan despite the internal political turmoil in Israel.
Despite international efforts, the situation on the ground remains dire. Recent operations in the Gaza Strip resulted in significant casualties, with the latest Israeli offensive killing 274 people and injuring 698, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. The Israeli army also carried out a hostage rescue mission, freeing four individuals from a refugee camp, a move that has sparked divergent reactions among the Israeli public and Hamas.
Continued violence has only worsened the humanitarian situation in Gaza, with severe shortages of food and medical supplies reported. In response, US military operations have resumed humanitarian aid drops to alleviate some of the sufferings of the 2.4 million residents of the enclave.
Biden’s plan, if accepted by all parties, could represent a significant step towards peace in the region. However, it remains uncertain whether the divergent objectives of Hamas and the current Israeli government can find a common ground for a lasting ceasefire.
- The American initiative also underscores the importance of international cooperation to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The US has called on other countries to contribute to aid efforts, emphasizing that the alleviation of civilian suffering is a top priority.
- Blinken’s diplomatic tour includes stops in Jordan and Qatar, where he is expected to seek further regional support for the truce plan. The goal is to unify regional powers in exerting pressure on Hamas and Israel to adhere to the proposed ceasefire.
