GAZA: The United States has circulated for the first time a draft resolution at the United Nations calling for an “immediate” ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, as warnings grow of famine in the besieged Gaza Strip. This marks a departure from previous stances, as Washington had previously blocked similar resolutions using the term “immediate.”
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed this change in position, emphasizing that any ceasefire must be contingent upon the release of hostages taken by Palestinian resistance group Hamas on October 7.
The situation on the ground remains dire, with Gaza enduring continued bombardment by Israeli forces. Overnight reports indicate that at least 70 Palestinians have been killed, bringing the total death toll to an alarming 32,000. Witnesses describe scenes of devastation, with Gaza’s largest hospital becoming a focal point of the conflict.
Israel accuses Hamas of using the hospital complex as a hiding place, prompting a days-long raid that has claimed the lives of over 140 Palestinian civilians. Hamas condemned the attack on the hospital as a crime.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached critical levels, with the territory’s 2.4 million residents facing the looming threat of famine. UN agencies have warned of a collapse in civilian infrastructure, underscoring the urgent need for a ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need.
While no vote has been scheduled on the US-drafted resolution, Blinken believes that its support would send a “strong message.” Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue, with Blinken set to meet foreign ministers in Egypt and later travel to Israel.
Despite efforts to broker a ceasefire, tensions continue, with clashes also reported in the occupied West Bank. Cyprus prepares to host an international conference aimed at establishing a “maritime corridor” to deliver essential supplies to Gaza.
