The United States Pushes for Cease-Fire in Gaza Conflict
In a bold move, the United States has submitted a draft resolution to the U.N. Security Council calling for “an immediate cease-fire tied to the release of hostages” in Gaza. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken made the announcement during his latest trip to Saudi Arabia, where he is working to broker a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.
The Biden administration has been increasingly vocal in its calls for an immediate cease-fire as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens and international pressure mounts for action. In an interview with Al Hadath, a Saudi-run news channel, Blinken expressed hope that other countries would support the U.S.-proposed resolution, stating that it would send a strong message.
This marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, as the administration has previously vetoed three Security Council resolutions calling for a halt in fighting. However, last month, the Biden administration circulated its own draft proposal that included a cease-fire for the first time, signaling a willingness to criticize Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Negotiations between Hamas and Israel, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, are said to be “getting closer” to reaching an agreement, according to Blinken. Hamas recently presented a new proposal that excluded a previous demand for an immediate permanent cease-fire, while Israeli officials have indicated that a 42-day pause in fighting could lead to the release of hostages.
“I think the gaps are narrowing, and I think an agreement is very much possible,” Blinken said, expressing optimism for a resolution to the conflict. The international community will be closely watching as efforts to secure a cease-fire and release hostages in Gaza continue to unfold.
