Tensions Rise Between U.S. and Israel After U.N. Cease-Fire Resolution
The relationship between the United States and Israel has taken a hit following the passage of a U.N. cease-fire resolution, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announcing that he would not send a high-level delegation to Washington for planned meetings with U.S. officials.
President Biden had requested the meetings to discuss alternatives to a planned Israeli offensive into Rafah, a city in southern Gaza where over a million people have sought refuge. American officials have warned that the offensive could lead to a humanitarian disaster.
The United States had previously vetoed three U.N. Security Council resolutions calling for an end to the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. However, when a less strongly worded resolution calling for a cease-fire during Ramadan was presented, the U.S. representative abstained, allowing the measure to pass.
Netanyahu criticized the abstention, calling it a departure from the consistent American position and giving Hamas hope that international pressure could lead to a cease-fire without freeing hostages. In response, the Israeli delegation scheduled to discuss Rafah canceled their trip to Washington.
Despite the cancellation, the U.S. National Security Council spokesman, John F. Kirby, stated that there had been no change in the American position. He explained that the U.S. abstained from voting for the resolution because it did not condemn Hamas.
The U.N. resolution also called for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas, a move welcomed by the Palestinian armed group. Hamas expressed willingness to engage in a prisoner exchange process that could lead to the release of prisoners on both sides.
The fallout from the U.N. resolution has sparked anger among far-right elements of Israel’s government, with some calling for an intensification of the military campaign. The international community has criticized Israel for its conduct during the war, urging the country to do more to avoid civilian casualties and allow aid into Gaza.
The strained relationship between the U.S. and Israel comes at a critical time as efforts to secure a cease-fire and negotiate the release of hostages continue. The future of the conflict remains uncertain as both sides navigate the complex diplomatic landscape.
