What’s in the Latest U.S. Proposal for a Gaza Cease-Fire?
New York TimesAug 19
Israeli Forces Push Deeper into Central, Southern Gaza
Above: Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the US to the United Nations, speaks during a UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question at the United Nations headquarters on August 22, 2024. Image copyright: Michael M. Santiago/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Israeli forces pushed deeper into Deir al-Balah in central Gaza and Khan Younis in the south on Thursday, as negotiations regarding a cease-fire and hostage release remain uncertain. The fighting has forced Palestinians to flee to areas already overcrowded. Fighting was also reported in Rafah.
Israel's negotiators reportedly arrived in Cairo on Thursday to continue cease-fire talks. US ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the UN Security Council that a deal "is in sight,” urging members of the body to pressure Hamas to accept a US "bridging" proposal.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
With the clock ticking, the US and its allies are confident that after some tough negotiating, a deal between Israel and Hamas can be reached. A guaranteed end to the war will ensure increased humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave, the release of Israeli hostages, and create a better "day after" in Gaza without Hamas in power. The US will continue to work toward closing the gaps and ensuring that peace and stability can be restored to the region.
Pro-Israel narrative
The battle for Rafah was so important because it allowed Israeli forces to prevent Hamas from utilizing its subterranean supply lines into Gaza. Indeed, preventing Hamas from re-establishing these supply lines will prove crucial in defeating the terrorist group, and Netanyahu is correct in making the Philadelphi Corridor a red line. Israel cannot repeat past mistakes and will continue to hold firm in its demands.
Pro-Palestine narrative
It should be clear after over 10 months of grinding brutality that Israel's true goal is to destroy Gaza and its people. Israel has failed miserably at defeating Hamas, as it continues to re-emerge in areas Israel has deemed "cleared." Continuing this genocidal war is simply a means to prolong Netanyahu's political career, and the US has helped him every step of the way.