Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Efforts to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas hit a roadblock on Sunday, with the United States indicating it would veto the latest push for a UN Security Council resolution. Mediator Qatar also acknowledged that truce talks have reached an impasse.
Israeli Prime Minister’s Defiance
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed on Saturday to reject international appeals to spare Gaza’s southernmost city, Rafah, where approximately 1.5 million people have sought refuge. The Israeli military’s campaign to eradicate Hamas forces has intensified, with overnight attacks claiming the lives of at least 10 Gazans in Rafah and central Gaza’s Deir al-Balah.
Escalating Conflict
The Gaza war, which began with Hamas’s attack on October 7, has resulted in the deaths of around 1,160 people in Israel, mostly civilians. Hamas militants have also taken approximately 250 people hostage, with 130 still in Gaza, including 30 presumed dead. In retaliation, Israel’s assault on Gaza has claimed the lives of at least 28,858 people, predominantly women and children.
Egypt’s Concerns
Neighbouring Egypt has expressed apprehension that an Israeli invasion of Rafah could lead to Gazans trapped in the city crossing the border. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s opposition to any forced displacement into the Sinai desert. Despite efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, Netanyahu remains steadfast in his commitment to a ground invasion of Rafah.
International Diplomatic Efforts
During a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, both leaders emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire. However, Netanyahu affirmed that even if a temporary truce is agreed upon in Cairo, the Israeli military will proceed with its planned invasion of Rafah.
US Stance and UN Security Council Resolution
The United States has voiced opposition to the current draft resolution at the UN Security Council, signalling that it will not support the proposed action. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield stated that the US favours a truce-for-hostages deal that would pause fighting for six weeks. President Joe Biden has been engaged in diplomatic efforts to advance this deal.
In conclusion, the prospects for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict remain uncertain as diplomatic efforts face obstacles and escalating tensions on the ground.
.