The United States has urged Israel to aim for a concrete end to its Gaza operations before the new year arrives, according to multiple confidential sources cited by a prominent economic publication.
The report notes that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated a similar request during recent discussions with Israeli officials.
It also indicates that the Biden administration is pressing Israel to do more to ease the humanitarian plight of Palestinian civilians, with particular emphasis on communities in southern Gaza.
Meanwhile, it has been announced that US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to visit Israel over the coming weekend, signaling continued high-level engagement on the crisis.
Senior lawmakers have weighed in on the crisis as well. A member of the US Senate suggested that Israel’s standing in the eyes of the world has suffered a significant hit and could influence future international responses. The senator argued that Washington might back a United Nations ceasefire resolution that would enable hostage releases and the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Separately, prominent Hollywood figures have expressed support for an immediate cessation of hostilities in both Israel and Gaza, aligning with calls for a humanitarian pause.
As the situation evolves, observers note the interplay between diplomatic pressure, security considerations, and humanitarian needs, with the international community watching closely for any steps that could help protect civilians while addressing security concerns.