In Rafah, Gaza, a devastating airstrike by the Israeli army has claimed the lives of eight Palestinians, including three women and three children, with several others injured, as reported by Arab media outlets on Friday.
The tragic incident occurred amidst mounting international pressure, particularly from Washington, as the United States prepares to present a resolution to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution aims to facilitate humanitarian assistance and enhance the protection of civilians in the conflict zone.
Initially hesitant, the United States had previously opposed similar ceasefire initiatives and had vetoed proposals advocating for urgent truces in Gaza. However, following extensive consultations with UNSC members, Washington has now thrown its weight behind this latest resolution, signaling a shift in its stance.
The draft resolution seeks to secure a sustained ceasefire lasting approximately six weeks, providing a window for the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid and safeguarding civilian lives. To pass in the UNSC, the resolution must garner at least nine affirmative votes and avoid veto by any of the five permanent members: the US, Britain, France, Russia, and China.
In addition to calling for a ceasefire, the resolution also underscores the urgent necessity of ramping up humanitarian assistance in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, exacerbating hunger and suffering among the population.
The move comes amid growing international concern over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and its expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank. A group of around 70 former US officials and diplomats has urged President Joe Biden to caution Israel against denying basic necessities and civil rights to Palestinians, as well as escalating settlement activities, emphasizing potential repercussions for such actions.
