Algeria proposes a resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Rafah to the UN Security Council.
Algeria, a non-permanent member of the UN, is working to end hostilities in the Gaza Strip. The Algerian ambassador, Amar Bendjama, announced a strong initiative: a draft resolution to put an end to the Israeli offensive in Rafah and establish an “ immediate ” ceasefire. “ We hope it can be done as quickly as possible because lives are at stake,” he said.
A reaction to the Rafah tragedy
Algeria called for this emergency meeting after a deadly Israeli strike on a displaced persons camp in Rafah, which killed 45 people and injured 249 others, according to the Palestinian health ministry. This attack was followed by another strike, killing 21 more people.
Amar Bendjama recalled the urgency of the situation and affirmed that it is imperative to take rapid measures.
An initiative based on international law
The Algerian draft resolution is based on the decisions of the International Court of Justice. “ Israel, as the occupying power, must immediately stop its military offensive and all other actions in Rafah,” the text states.
The Chinese ambassador, Fu Cong, hopes for a vote this week in the face of the humanitarian emergency in the Gaza Strip.
International support and reactions
The French ambassador, Nicolas de Rivière, called for rapid action from the Security Council, calling the situation a ” question of life and death.” “ It is high time for this Council to act and adopt a new resolution,” she argued.
For her part, the American ambassador, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, indicated that she was waiting to see the resolution before commenting.
France supports this resolution
Emmanuel Macron affirmed his support for the Algerian request during a press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. “ We support the Algerian request for an emergency meeting for a ceasefire in Gaza,” he said.
The head of state specified that France is working with Algeria on a joint resolution to respond to this humanitarian emergency and give a clear UN mandate on Gaza.
A call for a political solution
Emmanuel Macron also underlined the importance of a political solution to emerge from this crisis. “ We are ready to actively work towards a peace solution. It is achievable,” he insisted, recalling that “ the exit can only be political .”
Is Emmanuel Macron open to the recognition of a State of Palestine?
The President of the Republic also announced that he was “ ready to recognize a Palestinian state ”, but he did not wish to condition this announcement on “ a recognition of emotion ”. The Head of State explains that this recognition “ must arrive at a useful time, as part of a process”.
The massacre continues in Rafah
In the meantime, the violence continues. At least 37 people were killed Tuesday night after Israeli artillery fire and airstrikes outside the town of Rafah. This is the second attack against civilians in several days.
