Israel Scraps Washington Visit As US Allows UN Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

On Monday, tensions rose between the United States and Israel after the US chose not to veto a UN Security Council resolution. The resolution called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a planned visit to the US for two of his top advisors, according to Israeli officials.

The US had previously vetoed similar ceasefire resolutions but adjusted its stance last week, proposing a resolution tied to the release of hostages. However, this resolution was vetoed by Russia and China. The US abstained from Monday’s vote, allowing the resolution to pass with the support of the other 14 council members. While the US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, noted that the latest resolution incorporated edits requested by the US, she clarified that Washington couldn’t fully endorse it due to disagreements.

The resolution, put forward by non-permanent Security Council members, calls for an immediate ceasefire during Ramadan, the release of hostages, and increased aid flow into Gaza. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgency of implementing the resolution, describing failure to do so as “unforgivable.” Both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority welcomed the resolution, while Israel criticized it for not conditioning the ceasefire on hostage release.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel would not comply with the resolution, vowing to continue until all hostages were returned. The Biden administration chose to abstain, citing diplomatic efforts to amend the resolution’s text. However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed disappointment over the absence of condemnation for Hamas.

The cancellation of the Washington visit by Israeli officials highlights the rift caused by the UN vote. The US has expressed its disappointment over the situation and has emphasized the importance of seeking alternative measures to military action in Gaza through constructive talk.

Despite reported progress on a prisoner-hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, major issues remain unresolved, according to Hamas officials. The cancellation of the visit highlights the deepening discord between Israel and the US over the handling of the Gaza conflict and efforts toward peace.