Just a few weeks ago, there were hopes of a truce during Ramadan. But the Israeli Prime Minister remains adamant and continues his military offensive, while famine threatens the civilian population of the Gaza Strip, already severely weakened by six months of war. Increasing criticism from Western allies is not curbing Benyamin Netanyahu’s determination to attack the town of Rafah. The main American ally, which recognises Israel’s right to defend itself, is parachuting in food aid at the same time as continuing to deliver munitions to the Israeli army. But for the first time, the United States has presented a resolution to the UN calling for an “immediate ceasefire linked to the release of the hostages” and on 20 March, Antony Blinken, the head of US diplomacy, arrived in Saudi Arabia for a fourth visit in the region, in search of a truce.
Find all the archives of our weekly editorials here!
