Netanyahu scraps Israeli delegation's US visit after UN Gaza ceasefire vote

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday the cancellation of an Israeli delegation's planned visit to Washington following the United States' decision not to veto on United Nations Security Council resolution called for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Netanyahu's office stated that the US abstention represented a 'clear departure' from its previous stance and could impede efforts to combat Hamas and secure the release of over 130 hostages held in Gaza.

🇺🇸🇮🇱ISRAEL CANCELS TRIP TO WASHINGTON AFTER UN VOTE

After the U.S did not kill a UN resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, PM Netanyahu got bad.

He’s reportedly canceled the planned Israeli delegation trip to D.C this week to discuss Rafah invasion plans.

Source: Times of… https://t.co/SfWABGFTDz pic.twitter.com/OXosLMaAA5

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) March 25, 2024

UNSC calls immediate ceasefire in Gaza

The Security Council resolution, which called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, also demanded the unconditional release of all hostages. The US abstained from the vote, prompting Netanyahu's decision to cancel the delegation's trip.

The delegation was scheduled to discuss Israel's proposed military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where a large number of Palestinians are seeking refuge.

US stance on Israel's withdrawal 

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby expressed disappointment at Israel's withdrawal from the meeting, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive dialogue between the two nations. He reiterated the US position against a major ground offensive in Rafah and assured that discussions with Israeli officials would continue to address mutual concerns.

🇮🇱🇺🇸U.S: OUR POLICY SUPPORTING A CEASEFIRE IS CONSISTENT

Kirby:

"Our vote in the Security Council does not reflect a change in our policy.

We are consistent in our support for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.

The wording does not include condemnation of Hamas, so… https://t.co/F7bf2q8aJX pic.twitter.com/iYWJNjCV3z

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) March 25, 2024

Despite the cancellation of the delegation's visit, discussions between Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and senior US officials, including national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, are expected to proceed as planned.