Shift in U.S. Position on Israel Revealed in UN Draft Resolution
In a significant diplomatic development, Israel has rejected a revised draft resolution introduced by the United States to the UN Security Council concerning a proposed prisoner exchange and cessation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip. This amended version, which was unveiled by U.S. President Joe Biden, calls on both Hamas and Israel to implement the proposal 'without delay and without conditions.' The earlier version of the resolution only urged Hamas to accept the proposal.
Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, expressed his country's opposition to the draft during a conversation with his American counterpart, Linda Thomas-Greenfield. The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reported that the resolution indicates a notable shift in the U.S. position towards Israel, with enhanced detail on non-changing demographics or the status quo in Gaza. The previous iteration lacked these specifics.
Increased Global Pressure for Ceasefire
Concurrently, diplomatic pressure is mounting for both Hamas and Israel to agree to the ceasefire proposal. Leaders from 17 countries, including Germany, France, Britain, Spain, Argentina, and Brazil, have joined the U.S. in urging acceptance of the plan. Their collective statement underscores the gravity of the current situation and the need for immediate action. Meanwhile, Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza, despite international calls for an end to the violence.
The revised plan consists of three phases outlined by President Biden. The initial phase involves a temporary six-week ceasefire coupled with the exchange of prisoners, including women, the elderly, and the wounded. The second phase would see a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of remaining hostages, culminating in a permanent ceasefire. Finally, the third phase focuses on the long-term rehabilitation of Gaza, with enhanced humanitarian aid pouring into the region.
President Biden and other global leaders emphasized the importance of this proposal during the D-Day commemoration event in France. Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's resistance to the second phase of the ceasefire plan, there remains a significant push from the international community for a resolution. The U.S. has reiterated its support for the ceasefire proposition, signifying the urgent need for both parties to negotiate and reach an agreement to halt the ongoing conflict.
- Diplomatic efforts continue to be spearheaded by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, with the aim of ending the violence and addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza. The direct involvement of high-ranking officials, such as the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and CIA Director William Burns, highlights the seriousness of the situation.
- Despite the diplomatic push, the Israeli war on Gaza has resulted in severe casualties and destruction. Approximately 120,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured, many of them children and women, and the infrastructure in Gaza has been significantly damaged. The international community continues to call for a ceasefire and the implementation of measures to prevent further humanitarian catastrophe.
