The United Nations Security Council has approved a resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan. This is the first time such a resolution has been approved since the conflict began, and it was seen as a significant development when the United States abstained from vetoing it. According to US officials, the decision was made due to the lack of condemnation of Hamas in the resolution.
Israel reacted by canceling a mission to Washington intended to discuss alternatives to a ground operation in Rafah with the Biden administration, stating that the resolution harms both the war effort and hostage release negotiations. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, during an official visit to the US, emphasized that Israel feels a moral obligation to continue the war as long as there are hostages detained in Gaza. He warned that failure to achieve a decisive victory could lead to further conflicts in the region.
The UN Secretary-General condemned Israel’s stop on aid delivery to the north of Gaza and emphasized that implementing the resolution was crucial for bringing about peace and stability in the region. Hamas welcomed the UN resolution and reiterated its call for a permanent ceasefire leading to Israeli forces withdrawing from Gaza. The group expressed willingness to engage in a process leading to prisoner releases on both sides.
