US Introduces Resolution in UN Security Council for Gaza War Agreement
Following US President Joe Biden's announced plan for an agreement to end the Gaza war, Israel's main ally seeks backing from the United Nations Security Council. The US reportedly introduced a resolution on Monday in an effort to ensure that the council adopts the proposal and insists that the Islamist Hamas accepts the agreement, including the release of hostages. The G7 group has unequivocally supported Biden's proposed agreement, which Israel is said to have already agreed to. They fully endorse the plan as it leads to a permanent end to the crisis, according to a statement released by the Italian G7 presidency in the evening. However, doubts arise as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu questions the possibility of reaching an agreement with Hamas. Netanyahu stated that they have not agreed to a ceasefire without their conditions being met. Despite this, Biden views it as the best opportunity for an agreement in the stalled negotiations. He reaffirmed Israel's willingness to adhere to the conditions offered to Hamas during a call with the Qatari Emir. Netanyahu made it clear that Israel's conditions for ending the war remain unchanged: the destruction of Hamas and the release of all hostages. Four hostages held by Hamas have been killed, according to Israeli information, while 124 remain in captivity. Talks between the US, Qatar, and Egypt have been ongoing to achieve a ceasefire and a hostage exchange. Netanyahu's right-wing religious coalition partners threaten to collapse the government if Israel agrees to the deal. The White House National Security Council's Communications Director emphasized that this proposal is Israel-led and is the result of intensive diplomacy, indicating it is now up to Hamas to accept. The G7 called on Hamas to comply with the agreement and urged influential countries to help secure their approval. The G7 reiterated its support for a credible path to peace, ultimately leading to a two-state solution. Fighting in Gaza continues, with the Israeli army uncovering additional Hamas tunnels and weapons depots in Rafah. Over half of all buildings in Gaza are damaged or destroyed due to the ongoing conflict, with a majority in Germany now rejecting Israel's military actions in Gaza, a stark reversal from previous sentiment.
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