U.S. Advocates for a 'Practical' Ceasefire in Gaza, Opposes Rafah Offensive
The United States, a key ally of Israel, has recently put forth a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council. The resolution advocates for a 'practical' ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and opposes any potential Israeli ground offensive in the city of Rafah.
The draft resolution, which was made available for review, emphasizes the Security Council's support for a ceasefire in Gaza. This ceasefire is contingent on the release of all hostages and the removal of all obstacles hindering large-scale humanitarian assistance in Gaza. The U.S. draft also cautions Israel against initiating a ground offensive in Rafah, stating that such a significant ground offensive should not proceed under the current circumstances.
Israel has expressed plans to invade Rafah, where over 1.4 million of the 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza have sought refuge. These plans have sparked international concern, as such an action could lead to a high civilian death toll and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which is already on the brink of famine, according to the UN.
The U.S. draft resolution is seen as a significant shift in language, marking the first time the U.S. has proposed the term 'ceasefire.' This is noteworthy because Israel has previously expressed opposition to the inclusion of the term 'ceasefire' in any resolution.
The U.S. has traditionally shielded Israel from UN action and has twice vetoed Security Council resolutions. However, it has also abstained twice, allowing the council to adopt resolutions aimed at enhancing humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza and calling for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses in the fighting.
The U.S. draft resolution suggests the idea of a ceasefire but does not insist on immediate action, which may not be acceptable to other permanent members of the council, such as Russia. The draft also warns Israel against launching an operation in Rafah, indicating that such an action could cause further harm to civilians and lead to displacement, particularly into neighboring countries, which could have serious implications on regional security.
The U.S. draft resolution is yet to be put to a vote. The conflict has resulted in at least 29,092 deaths and 69,028 injuries in the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip since October 7, according to Palestinian authorities. At least 1,139 people were killed in the Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, according to official Israeli figures.
News Agencies