Israel (Washington Insider Magazine)— Israel has vowed to continue its military campaign in Gaza, saying it will not engage in “meaningless” negotiations with Hamas, just after the United Nations Security Council overwhelmingly adopted a US-backed ceasefire plan aimed at ending the eight-month conflict.
Israeli Stance at the UN
Israel’s representative to the UN, Reut Shapir Ben-Naftaly, emphasized her country’s intention to ensure that Gaza does not pose a future threat to Israel. She emphasized the importance of returning all hostages and degrading Hamas’ capabilities, accusing the militant group of using negotiations to delay for time.
Global Support for Ceasefire
According to CNN, despite Israel’s stance, the UN Security Council approved a detailed three-stage peace plan backed by the United States that aimed to achieve a durable truce and the departure of Israeli soldiers from Gaza. This historic decision boosts international pressure on Hamas and Israel to resolve the conflict.
US Push for Resolution Implementation
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, presently on a diplomatic mission in the Middle East, confirmed Israel’s adherence to the ceasefire plan after meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Hamas and Palestinian Response
Hamas welcomed the adoption of the UNSC resolution, expressing readiness to engage with mediators to implement measures including the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a prisoner exchange. Palestinian representatives stress the importance of Israel implementing the resolution.
Negotiations and Ongoing Conflict
Detailed negotiations to implement the ceasefire provisions are ongoing. The proposed plan includes stages for an initial ceasefire, hostage release, and eventual full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
International Efforts and Casualties
Although the resolution aims to halt the current conflict, casualties continue to mount. More than 37,000 lives have been claimed in Gaza since the battle began, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health, which does not distinguish between losses among fighters and civilians.
