The Biden administration has submitted a draft resolution to the United Nations (UN) urging for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Hamas have been engaged in conflict in Gaza since October 7, resulting in numerous civilian deaths and hundreds of abductions.
The Biden administration is actively pursuing a ceasefire agreement to facilitate the safe release of hostages. The UN resolution establishes the conditions for a lasting and enduring ceasefire. Israel insists on a complete eradication of Hamas from the region before agreeing to a full-scale ceasefire. Israel and Hamas have initiated another round of negotiations on a potential agreement, which involves a six-week truce and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for dozens of hostages held by Hamas.
Tensions have arisen between the Biden administration and the Israeli government due to differing views on war strategy and post-war governance in the Gaza region. The U.S.’s choice to abstain at the U.N. indicates a rising dissatisfaction with the Israeli leader. The Biden administration found Israel’s decision perplexing and viewed it as an overreaction.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant held high-level meetings in Washington despite the earlier cancellation of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s delegation. The US’s decision to abstain further widens the divide between Biden and Netanyahu, who have always had strained relationships.
Biden emphasized the importance of defending Israel and the critical role of the Iron Dome missile defense system in protecting Israel. Netanyahu, however, resisted Biden’s criticism and pledged to continue advancing in Rafah.
US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer suggested holding new elections in Israel to replace Netanyahu. Netanyahu’s 2024 re-election bid is limited, as he must balance avoiding Republicans’ issues with pro-Israel voters and addressing progressive Democrats’ concerns.
Netanyahu’s emergency unity government is committed to pursuing the war until Hamas is eliminated and hostages are safely returned.
