The United States has proposed a draft resolution to the UN Security Council, urging for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip linked to the release of hostages, announced Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his tour of the Middle East, which includes a stop in Israel.
Despite being a staunch supporter of Israel, the United States has previously vetoed UN Security Council votes on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, recent weeks have seen Washington increase pressure on its ally, emphasizing the urgent need for Hamas militants to release hostages taken during attacks on Israel.
Speaking in Saudi Arabia, Blinken expressed hope that countries would support the resolution, underscoring the importance of sending a strong message for peace.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to dismantling Hamas in response to the October 7 attacks. However, while supporting Israel's right to self-defense, Blinken emphasized the imperative of prioritizing the protection of civilians and providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict.
US officials have been in negotiations for an alternative resolution since rejecting a previous draft calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. The new version emphasizes the necessity of an immediate and durable ceasefire to protect civilians and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, contingent upon the release of hostages.
As of now, no vote has been scheduled on the proposed resolution.
Despite being a staunch supporter of Israel, the United States has previously vetoed UN Security Council votes on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, recent weeks have seen Washington increase pressure on its ally, emphasizing the urgent need for Hamas militants to release hostages taken during attacks on Israel.
Speaking in Saudi Arabia, Blinken expressed hope that countries would support the resolution, underscoring the importance of sending a strong message for peace.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to dismantling Hamas in response to the October 7 attacks. However, while supporting Israel's right to self-defense, Blinken emphasized the imperative of prioritizing the protection of civilians and providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict.
US officials have been in negotiations for an alternative resolution since rejecting a previous draft calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. The new version emphasizes the necessity of an immediate and durable ceasefire to protect civilians and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, contingent upon the release of hostages.
As of now, no vote has been scheduled on the proposed resolution.
