What to Know
On Tuesday, Algeria put forth a draft resolution to the UN Security Council, calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and demanding that Israel “immediately halt its military offensive” in Rafah.
Why It Matters
This move by Algeria comes in response to escalating tensions and ongoing military operations in the Gaza Strip. The draft resolution seeks to address the humanitarian situation and reflect Algeria’s stance on the ongoing conflict. It highlights the efforts made by various international actors to mediate conflict and protect civilians.
Context
Algerian Position
Algeria’s UN Ambassador, Amar Bendjama, explained that the resolution aims to “stop the killing in Rafah.” During a closed-door meeting of the 15-member UN Security Council on Gaza, the focus was on halting military operations that risk civilian lives.
Details of the Resolution
Using strong language, the Algerian draft resolution directs Israel, as the occupying power, to cease its military actions in Rafah. It references a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that mandated Israel to halt operations risking civilian harm, underlining the legal pressure on Israel in the context of international humanitarian law.
International Responses
White House Stance
The White House has acknowledged the situation but stated that Israel’s actions have not breached President Joe Biden’s “red lines.” This suggests continuity in the U.S. policy supporting Israel, even amid heightened scrutiny.
US and Other Council Members’ Positions
U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, noted the U.S. is reviewing the draft resolution, reflecting a cautious and measured approach. Other diplomatic voices, like those of China’s Ambassador Fu Cong and France’s Ambassador Nicolas de Riviere, emphasized the urgency and gravity of the situation, advocating for immediate action.
Background
Recent Israeli strikes in Rafah, aimed at Hamas operatives but inadvertently causing civilian casualties, have intensified international calls for de-escalation. Israel maintains that its operation’s primary target is Hamas, and any unintended civilian harm is due to Hamas’s practice of storing weapons in civilian areas.
What’s Next
The draft resolution’s fate at the Security Council remains uncertain, contingent on receiving at least nine votes without any vetoes from the permanent members. The U.S. has historically shielded Israel with vetoes but has also shown flexibility by abstaining on some votes, indicating possible shifts in response strategies.
The Israel-Hamas Conflict
The current conflict escalated following a Hamas attack on October 7, leading to significant casualties and hostage crises in Israel. Israel’s defense and offensive strategies focus on dismantling Hamas operations while facing calls for measured and humane military actions.
Israeli Operations
Israel asserts its operations aim to dismantle terror infrastructure, with a defender-oriented narrative stressing national security and countering terror threats from Hamas. Despite international pressures, Israel plans to continue calibrated actions in Rafah with a focus on reducing civilian risks.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.