UNITED NATIONS: The United States stated that a ceasefire in Gaza, as voted for by the United Nations Security Council, can “only” be implemented once the Palestinian resistance group Hamas begins releasing hostages it still holds.
Following the UN Security Council vote where the US abstained, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador to the UN emphasized, “A ceasefire can begin immediately with the release of the first hostage. This is the only path to securing a ceasefire.”
The White House clarified that the US abstention does not signify a change in policy. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby emphasized that while the US supports a ceasefire, the decision to abstain was due to the resolution’s failure to condemn Hamas.
Amidst tensions between the US and Israel following the UN vote, Israel canceled a planned delegation’s visit to Washington, DC. The cancellation disappointed the White House, which had hoped for discussions on alternatives to a ground offensive in Rafah.
While the US stance remains consistent in supporting a ceasefire as part of a hostage deal, efforts are ongoing to secure the release of approximately 130 hostages held in Gaza since October 7.
Since October 7, Israel’s military bombardment in Gaza has resulted in a death toll of over 32,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
Despite the canceled delegation visit, Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant will meet with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to discuss efforts for hostage release and humanitarian aid distribution in Rafah.
