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An Israeli tank maneuvers near Israel's border with Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in southern Israel, March 21, 2024.
The US submitted a draft resolution to the UN Security Council calling for an “immediate cease-fire” in Gaza “tied to the release of hostages,” Secretary of State Antony Blinkensaid Wednesday during a visit to the Middle East.
This marks a significant shift in Washington’s stance on the war, as the US has wielded its veto against Gaza cease-fire resolutions several times. Just last month, the US blocked an Algeria-drafted resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire. The Biden administration’s embrace of such language is indicative of the pressure the White House is under with growing criticism from voters over the government’s support for the Jewish State — and an election looming.
The resolution signals that the US is serious about pursuing a cease-fire without abandoning Israel in the process. Though UNSC resolutions are legally binding, they are often ignored, and there are few consequences, if any. Still, Blinken said the resolution would send a “strong message.” The UNSC is expected to vote on the resolution on Friday.
Meanwhile, Blinken says “gaps are narrowing” in indirect talks between Israel and Hamas for a new truce and hostage release.
