Netanyahu’s office said ‘Israel will not cave to Hamas’s delusional demands’, ending immediate attempts to negotiate a ceasefire and hostage release deal
Israel says no ceasefire and UN resolution has damaged talks
Israel claims that the UN resolution, which calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, has damaged ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas.
Hama recently rejected a proposal for a truce deal. Israel points to the rejection as evidence of the “damage” done.
PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israel would not surrender to what it called the Palestinian armed group’s “delusional demands”.
They include an end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
In favour: 14
— United Nations (@UN) March 25, 2024
Against: 0
Abstention: 1
The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the immediate, unconditional release of all hostages.https://t.co/nOBuQOkxnj pic.twitter.com/QkZ7J7wHgi
The US has rejected the Israeli statement saying Hama’s response was prepared before the UN vote on Monday. Fourteen members – including the UK – voted in favour of the resolution, whilst the US chose to abstain from voting – allowing it to pass.
UN resolution ceasefire ‘breakthrough’
The vote is a significant breakthrough, and is seen as – including by Israel – a shift in the stance of the US, which had vetoed three other resolutions on the war in Gaza since its start.
Netanyahu accused the US of having “abandoned” its previous policy and cancelled an Israel official’s visit to the US in response to the shift in policy.
“I think it’s pretty clear that if Israel does not comply with the resolution, the Biden administration is not going to allow the Security Council members to impose sanctions or other penalties on Israel,” Richard Gowan, an expert on the United Nations at the International Crisis Group.
Monday’s resolution came amid huge concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.