According to a report, the u.s. decision to abstain rather than veto a u.n. resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza was due to a national security concern. Reportedly, a u.s. official said they had worked to ensure that the resolution’s demands for a ceasefire and a hostage deal were part of the same paragraph to dispel the idea that they aren’t linked with each other, though the text does not condition the ceasefire on the release of hostages: The resolution is not binding according to the wording.
According to the report, the u.s. said that they are very disappointed that an israeli delegation will not be coming to Washington to have a conversation about the viable alternatives to an offensive in Rafah on which they have expressed interest. Reportedly, the u.s. who are welcoming the defence minister’s commitments to take additional steps to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza will welcome the defence minister who departs Israel on Sunday.