UN Security Council Endorses Biden Administration’s Cease-Fire Proposal for Gaza
The Biden administration’s cease-fire proposal for Gaza received a significant endorsement from the United Nations Security Council on Monday. The resolution supporting the plan for a truce in Gaza was passed with a 14-0 vote, with only Russia abstaining.
The proposal, drafted by the U.S. and finalized after six days of negotiations among council members, calls for an immediate stop in fighting, the release of hostages, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed some reservations about the plan, as he faces pressure from the far-right flank of his coalition to continue the war.
Hamas, the militant group in control of Gaza, has yet to respond to the three-stage proposal. The White House has stated that Israel was involved in crafting the plan, which was unveiled by President Joe Biden on May 31.
In related developments, three of the four Israeli hostages rescued on Saturday were being held at the home of a Palestinian journalist and Hamas member who was killed during the operation. Hamas leaders have reportedly given militants holding hostages orders to shoot them if they believe Israeli forces are coming to free them.
The Biden administration is also reportedly close to finalizing a treaty with Saudi Arabia that would involve the U.S. helping to defend the Gulf nation while encouraging diplomatic ties between Riyadh and Israel.
The situation remains tense as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken continues to push for a cease-fire, urging Hamas to accept the proposed plan. However, Hamas has accused the U.S. of bias towards Israel, complicating the peace efforts.
Additionally, there are reports that the U.S. may negotiate directly with Hamas to secure the release of five Americans being held hostage in Gaza if current cease-fire talks with Israel fail.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu remains committed to what he calls “total victory” in the conflict, stating that the war will not stop until Hamas is eliminated.
The U.S. has also announced a new round of sanctions targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen, accusing them of illegally transporting oil and other commodities. The Treasury Department has sanctioned individuals, companies, and ships involved in supporting the rebels.
The situation on the ground in Gaza remains dire, with residents in the Nuseirat refugee camp clearing debris and searching for the dead after a massive Israeli raid that freed hostages. Palestinian officials report a high death toll, including many women and children, in one of the deadliest assaults of the war.
Overall, the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, with international efforts to broker a cease-fire facing challenges from both sides.
