On Tuesday, the United States called for the immediate finalization of a deal between Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza conflict, following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s continued resistance despite growing pressure.
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that it is “time to finalize” the agreement, stressing the urgency for both Israeli and Palestinian lives. He mentioned that there are still many hostages in Gaza waiting for a resolution, and the world cannot afford further delays.
In response to the missile strike on Poltava, Ukraine, President Joe Biden affirmed continued US military support for Kyiv. The strike has intensified calls for action from international leaders, with Biden and others expressing concern over the lack of progress in negotiations.
Netanyahu, facing increasing domestic and international pressure, has maintained his stance against concessions, citing the need to control Gaza’s border with Egypt to prevent Hamas from rearming. This has led to tensions with Egypt, which has rejected allegations that its border is being used to arm Hamas.
The conflict has led to severe casualties on both sides, with recent Israeli airstrikes resulting in further loss of life in Gaza. The ongoing violence has also sparked criticism from Britain and other nations, leading to calls for greater accountability and restraint.
Amidst the conflict, a vaccination campaign in Gaza is underway due to a recent polio outbreak, with efforts focusing on immunizing children despite the ongoing violence.
