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In a determined move to halt the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the United States has urged the United Nations Security Council to vote on its latest resolution for a cease-fire. This call comes as Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken embarks on his eighth trip to the Middle East since the war began in October, aiming to mediate talks facilitated by Egypt and Qatar.
The U.S.-led proposal includes provisions for a full and immediate cease-fire and the release of hostages. “Israel has accepted this proposal, and the Security Council has an opportunity to speak with one voice and call on Hamas to do the same,” stated Nate Evans, a spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the United Nations.
The situation in Gaza has drawn severe international criticism, particularly following Israel’s recent military operations. These operations, which included an intense air and ground assault, led to the rescue of four Israeli hostages but also resulted in numerous Palestinian casualties. This international outcry could potentially create new momentum for a cease-fire, just as Blinken begins his tour.
Despite the urgency, achieving a realistic cease-fire remains complex. The United States, a permanent member of the Security Council, has vetoed three cease-fire resolutions, complicating negotiations. A draft resolution from Algeria, which described Israel as an “occupying power” in Gaza, was also blocked by the U.S.
The proposed U.S. plan involves a three-phase approach: starting with an immediate, temporary cease-fire, moving towards a permanent end to the conflict, and eventually reconstructing Gaza. As of last week, neither Israel nor Hamas had committed to this plan. A significant point of contention is whether Hamas would retain control over Gaza, a scenario Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu considers unacceptable.
Timing and logistics also pose challenges. Netanyahu has stated that Israel will continue its military operations until Hamas’s capabilities are eradicated. Conversely, Hamas has conditioned progress on a hostage deal upon Israel’s commitment to a permanent cease-fire and troop withdrawal from Gaza.
Adding to the complexity, Israeli domestic politics saw a significant shift with Benny Gantz’s centrist party exiting Netanyahu’s emergency wartime cabinet. Gantz has advocated for a cease-fire and proposed an international administrative body to oversee Gaza’s postwar recovery. His departure might embolden far-right elements within Netanyahu’s coalition, potentially jeopardizing the latest cease-fire efforts.
The U.S. mission’s statement hinted at Gaza’s future, suggesting that the cease-fire would lead to a comprehensive resolution and an internationally backed reconstruction plan. However, specifics on Blinken’s strategy to secure regional support remain undisclosed.
