The US has proposed a draft resolution at the UN Security Council calling for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza. This move marks a significant change in US policy, as the country has previously avoided using the word “ceasefire” during UN votes on the conflict. The draft resolution also warns Israel against launching a major ground offensive in the city of Rafah, highlighting the potential harm to civilians and regional stability.
The proposed ceasefire comes at a critical time, with more than a million displaced Palestinians seeking shelter in Rafah after being forced to flee their homes due to the ongoing conflict. The overcrowded city is facing dire conditions, with limited access to basic necessities such as food and water. The UN has issued warnings that an Israeli offensive in Rafah could result in a humanitarian disaster.
The US draft resolution is set to face opposition from Algeria, which has put forward its own proposal for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. While the US has pledged to veto the Algerian resolution, it does acknowledge the need to address Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Talks on the US draft are expected to take place this week, though it remains uncertain when or if the resolution will be put to a vote.
President Joe Biden’s calls for a temporary ceasefire align with his recent discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has resisted international pressure to reconsider military plans in Gaza. Israel’s war cabinet member, Benny Gantz, has set a deadline for launching an offensive in Rafah unless Hamas releases all hostages by 10 March.
The proposed ceasefire resolution also raises concerns about the potential impact of further displacement of civilians, including into neighboring countries like Egypt. It emphasizes the importance of regional peace and security, underscoring the need for all parties to prioritize diplomacy and de-escalation in the conflict.
As the situation in Gaza remains critical, the international community is closely monitoring developments at the UN Security Council. The US draft resolution represents a significant shift in US policy on the conflict and has the potential to influence the trajectory of the conflict and regional stability in the Middle East.
