Bowen: The US is expected to reject the proposal for a ceasefire, but there is growing pressure to reconsider.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed concern over the escalating hostilities in various regions, including the occupied West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, stating that it poses a serious threat to international peace and security. Given the urgent nature of the situation, Guterres has triggered Article 99, prompting a UN Security Council vote. However, the Israeli government strongly opposes the UN and the Secretary-General, accusing Guterres of pandering to Hamas by attempting to end the fighting prematurely. They argue that Guterres himself is the threat to world peace. Furthermore, Guterres mentioned the possibility of a mass displacement of Palestinians into Egypt due to the dire situation in Gaza, which also concerns the Egyptian government. The Palestinians, in turn, argue that Israel wants to force all Palestinians out of Gaza by exacerbating the already catastrophic conditions. Despite the media being restricted from entering Gaza, Guterres's descriptions align with the images and videos available. Israel claims to prioritize civilian lives but places responsibility on Hamas for using civilians as shields. The United States is likely to veto the resolution calling for a ceasefire at the UN, leading some to believe the Secretary-General's approach is aimed at pressuring Israel into action. The recent publication of footage showing Gaza prisoners being stripped and transported has further amplified international pressure. These prisoners, reportedly around 700, were taken from a UN school where they sought shelter, and some were killed in the process. This incident, combined with a video showing dead bodies near the same school, has fueled criticism of Israel's treatment of Palestinians. Overall, the situation remains tense, with ongoing debates surrounding Israel's actions in Gaza.