Passage: ON Friday, relentless Israeli bombardment of Gaza and the Hamas firing of rockets on Israel finally stopped. In the 11 days that passed before the ceasefire Hamas fired over 4,000 rockets at Israeli cities killing 12 people in Israel, while in Gaza around 250 civilians were killed and some 1,900 injured. Hamas says 20 of its fighters were killed. Israel claims that the number was at least 130. The Americans claimed that they were fully engaged, with officials from the president down to his personal envoy exchanging over 80 calls or arranging personal meetings. On every occasion Israel’s right to defend itself against a ‘terrorist organisation’ was part of the message.

The ceasefire was unconditional but where did this leave the prospect of a two-state solution and of recognition of the rights of the Palestinians in East Jerusalem?

When the ceasefire was declared President Biden made a three-minute appearance to claim credit for having arranged the ceasefire. This was a short speech. He refused to take questions but made the following points:
“Israel’s right to defend itself has always been part of the US message.”

PRECIS: The ceaseless Israeli bombardment of Gaza and the Hamas firing of rockets on Israel, continued for 11 days killing several people, stopped as the ceasefire were reached. The American officials claimed to have convened meetings and exchanged calls in the wake of situation. However, the Israel’s right to self-dense against ‘terrorist organisation’ remained conspicuous. After the ceasefire, President Biden made a short appearance to take credit for de-escalation.