UN Security Council Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza
In a notable shift from its previous stance, the United States refrained from vetoing a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. This resolution, passed unanimously, also emphasized the urgent release of all hostages held in the region.
The move marks the first time the Security Council has officially called for a ceasefire since the conflict erupted in October, following several unsuccessful attempts. The decision by the US underscores a growing discord between Washington and its ally Israel regarding Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office issued a strong rebuke, expressing disappointment in the US’s departure from its prior position, which had linked a ceasefire to the release of hostages. Netanyahu’s office criticized the resolution, stating it undermines efforts to secure the release of captives by providing Hamas with unwarranted hope for achieving a ceasefire without fulfilling hostage release conditions. Consequently, Israel canceled scheduled meetings between its delegation and US officials in Washington.
Israel’s defense minister affirmed that the country would not cease its operations in Gaza until all hostages are freed. Palestinian representative to the UN, Riyad Mansour, while welcoming the resolution, lamented its delayed issuance, highlighting the extensive casualties and displacement suffered during the prolonged conflict.
Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza, also welcomed the resolution, expressing readiness to engage in a prisoner exchange process leading to the release of detainees on both sides. However, Hamas reiterated its demand for the release of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons as a precondition for any hostage release.
During the Security Council vote, the US abstained while other members voted in favor of the resolution. The US had previously blocked similar resolutions, citing ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas. However, the US’s decision not to veto the resolution signifies a tougher stance towards Israel’s actions.
US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby clarified that the US’s support for the ceasefire remains consistent but criticized the resolution for not condemning Hamas. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the importance of implementing the resolution to secure a ceasefire and the unconditional release of hostages.
The resolution imposes a 15-day ceasefire period, coinciding with the remaining days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. While legally binding on Israel, the resolution does not hold the same weight for Hamas, as the Palestinian group is not a recognized state.
The US’s evolving stance reflects increasing criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in a significant number of civilian casualties. The US has urged Israel to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza, where severe food insecurity affects the entire population.
The conflict erupted when Hamas militants attacked Israeli communities, resulting in casualties and the capture of numerous hostages. Despite Israel’s decision to cancel high-level meetings with US officials, lower-level engagements are set to continue, reaffirming US support for Israel’s efforts against Hamas.