What’s happening:

In response to the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hamas, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has made a rare invocation of Article 99 of the UN Charter, signaling a critical juncture that requires immediate attention by the UN Security Council.

Why it matters:

The activation of Article 99 is a significant event, occurring when the Secretary-General deems a situation a threat to international peace and security. This move comes after the Council failed to agree on a resolution for an immediate ceasefire, amidst an Israeli ground offensive in Gaza and a surge in Palestinian casualties. The measure is meant to prevent the conflict from escalating further and causing a larger humanitarian disaster.

Israel’s Objections:

Israel, asserting its right to defend itself against what it labels a terrorist organization, has strongly opposed the UN’s call for a ceasefire. Israeli officials argue that halting military operations would effectively shield Hamas, an entity they consider a threat to their nation’s security.

Historical Context of Article 99:

Article 99, while infrequently used, has been a tool for the UN to address escalating global conflicts. Notable past invocations include the 1960 Congo crisis and the 1989 Lebanese civil war. The current invocation aims to bring international focus to the dire situation in Gaza, which faces a potential health crisis and has seen vast displacement of its population.

The Bigger Picture:

This situation underscores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with international diplomacy seeking to mediate between the urgent need for humanitarian relief and the geopolitical nuances of security and territorial integrity.

This story was first published on jpost.com.