Israel canceled a meeting in Washington because the US refused to block a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution also demanded the release of all hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the US for changing its stance.
The disagreement happened as there were urgent calls to prevent a famine in Gaza. The US had previously vetoed three similar resolutions, while Russia and China vetoed two. On this occasion, the US abstained from voting, allowing the resolution to pass.
Netanyahu objected because the resolution didn’t link the ceasefire to the release of hostages, as Israel wanted. Israel believed Hamas still held about 130 hostages, including some presumed dead.
Israel decided to cancel a planned visit to the US due to the change in the US position. The visit was meant to discuss Israel’s plans in Gaza. The US warned against a major ground offensive in Gaza, saying it would harm civilians.
Israel’s opposition leader criticized Netanyahu’s decision, calling it unnecessary and irresponsible. He said it was better to resolve disagreements privately.
Israel insisted it wouldn’t stop the war in Gaza until all hostages were released. The war began when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing many civilians.
The UN resolution was welcomed by Palestinians and Hamas. Talks between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, were ongoing. A proposed deal suggested releasing 40 Israeli hostages in exchange for 800 Palestinian prisoners.
The resolution was passed amid concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The UK conducted its first food airdrop into Gaza, urging Israel to allow more aid in.
UN Secretary-General stressed the importance of implementing the resolution to avoid a dire situation.