US Secretary of State Blinken traveled to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an effort to broker a ceasefire in Gaza and prevent an Israeli offensive in the city of Rafah. Despite Blinken's diplomatic efforts, Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to carrying out an offensive, even without US support, risking further isolation for Israel.
US Vice President Harris Expresses Concern for Civilians in Rafah
Vice President Kamala Harris expressed her concerns about the safety of civilians in Rafah, stating that there is no safe way for them to evacuate ahead of a possible offensive. She highlighted the dire situation of the 1.5 million people in the area, emphasizing that they were instructed to go there.
US Pushes for Ceasefire at UN Security Council
The US proposed a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for an immediate and sustained ceasefire, a departure from previous US policy on Israel. However, the resolution was vetoed by Russia and China, with Algeria also voting against it.
International Support for UNRWA Resumes
Finland announced that it would resume donations to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This decision follows other Western countries, including Canada, Australia, and the European Union, also resuming funding for UNRWA after suspensions due to allegations made by Israel.
