US changes position on Gaza ceasefire – Reuters — RT World News

US President Joe Biden's administration has reportedly abandoned its opposition to a humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and proposed a UN resolution calling on Israel to cancel its planned military offensive in the last refuge for displaced civilians in the Palestinian enclave.

Reuters reported on Monday, citing a copy of the text, that the draft resolution indicated that the planned storming of Rafah would harm civilians and lead to the displacement of more Gazans, which could push many to Egypt.

Israel's Rafah operation – which targeted Hamas's last stronghold in the besieged enclave – “It would have serious repercussions for regional peace and security, and thus confirms that such a major ground attack should not continue under the current circumstances.” In accordance with the proposed resolution.

Washington's delegation to the United Nations has previously opposed demands for a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas and has twice vetoed UN Security Council resolutions since the conflict began in October. Its new proposal comes in response to a draft resolution submitted by the Algerian delegation calling for an immediate ceasefire for humanitarian reasons.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that the Algerian decision could be undermined 'Delicate negotiations' To mediate an end to the fighting. She indicated on Saturday that the United States would veto the resolution if it was put to a vote in the Security Council on Tuesday.

About 1.4 million Gazans who were displaced by the Israeli bombing gathered in the city of Rafah, located on the southern border of the Strip, which usually has a population of about 280,000 people, according to the United Nations.

The United Nations warned that the planned Israeli Rafah operation would occur 'Severe humanitarian consequences' Dozens of European countries issued a similar warning on Monday, following in the footsteps of countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to completely eliminate Hamas in response to the deadly attacks carried out by Palestinian militants on October 7 that led to the war. He rejected international calls for a ceasefire and insisted on just that “Total victory” It will make Israel safe. “Those who want to prevent us from working in Rafah are telling us: Lose the war.” He told reporters on Saturday.

While Biden publicly supports the Israeli war effort — and provides American weapons — Biden has clashed with Netanyahu behind the scenes. During a phone call with Netanyahu on Thursday, Biden He reiterated his view that the military operation should not continue without a credible and implementable plan to ensure the safety and support of civilians in Rafah. According to a statement from the White House.

Reuters said that the United Nations resolution proposed by the Biden administration also condemns any efforts to reduce the area of ​​Gaza or transfer Israeli settlers to the Strip.