A pivotal moment for Gaza and global diplomacy  

Israel faces mounting pressure from the U.S. to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza in the wake of the tragic killing of seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen on April 1 and the harrowing toll of the war, which has already claimed over 30,000 Palestinian lives and more than 1,160 Israeli lives. 

This pressure comes amid a subtle yet significant shift in U.S. policy that occurred just five days before the tragic incident, potentially opening new avenues for peace and stability in the region.

On March 25, six months since the start of the war, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution S/RES/2728, mandating “an immediate cease-fire” for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The resolution also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. With 14 members casting votes in support and the United States notably choosing to abstain, the resolution’s passage is striking in the current diplomatic environment. It serves as an emerging symbol of hope and transformation in Gaza and the Palestinian territories — but only if it signals a new effort to respect human rights and fully implement international law as part of a broader roadmap for peace.  

Since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, the Security Council has adopted three resolutions, the latest being the first to demand a cease-fire. The U.S. vetoed three prior efforts to call for a cease-fire. The U.S. decision to abstain is a potentially pivotal shift in international relations and may signal a new opportunity to address the humanitarian crisis that has devastated Gaza.  

Before Dec. 18, 2023, the U.S. had vetoed 45 of 89 U.N. resolutions targeting Israel, many addressing the occupation of Palestinian territories or the treatment of Palestinians. This pattern underscores the U.S.’s traditional support for Israel. While the symbolic value of the resolution for the Palestinians in Gaza is profound, the reality on the ground remains grim. Israeli strikes continue, and the call for an immediate cease-fire and unrestricted humanitarian access continues to be ignored. Resolution 2728 is a too-long-delayed call for urgent action.  

As the linchpin of global peacekeeping, the Security Council must stand at the forefront of mediating peace in regions embroiled in conflict. The protracted conflict between Gaza and Israel, steeped in historical complexities and geopolitical stakes, poses one of the council’s most formidable challenges. To be successful, council members must be united in working toward peace. But its efforts are frequently hampered by the realpolitik of its five permanent members, most notably the United States, whose use of veto power and decisions to abstain from voting often reflect strategic interests rather than a dedication to peacekeeping and human rights.   

Further complicating the issue, U.S. officials have speculated that the resolution is not legally binding. Such a statement not only casts doubt on the credibility of the Security Council and the overall legitimacy of the United Nations, it also leaves the plight of millions of civilians hanging in the balance.   

Resolution 2728 highlights the ongoing debate about the binding nature of Security Council resolutions under international law. Such resolutions are theoretically imbued with legal authority but in practice face numerous obstacles. For example, Israel presently is in breach of a 2016 resolution that called for a cessation of settlement construction in the West Bank, and nothing substantial has been done to hold Israel accountable for its violations of that decree.  

Certain members of the Security Council with veto power, including the U.S., routinely block attempts at enforcing this mandate. Parallel political actions further undermine the collective security envisioned by the U.N. Shortly after its abstention, for example, the Biden administration transferred a substantial arsenal to Israel, including billions of dollars in bombs and fighter jets. This occurred despite mounting concerns within Washington over a potential military campaign in southern Gaza that threatens hundreds of thousands of Palestinian civilians.   

Accountability for Israel and adherence to international principles must lead discussions on the Israel-Gaza situation, focusing on the Palestinian right to exist with self-determination as recognized by international law and the U.N. Charter. Yet, this foundational right is missing from current debates and past peace talks. The continued denial of Palestinian rights, exacerbated by settlement expansions, military actions, and the Gaza blockade, underscores not only a cycle of violence but also the international community’s shortfall in enforcing these norms.  

The U.S., as Israel’s main ally and a key player globally, has the potential to significantly influence the course of the Israel-Palestine conflict. To foster lasting peace, a shift in U.S. policy is crucial, emphasizing justice, human rights, and compliance with international standards. This shift could involve conditioning U.S. aid to Israel on progress toward peace, such as stopping settlement growth, ending the Gaza blockade, and pursuing a two-state solution that respects both nations’ sovereignty and dignity. Furthermore, the U.S. has the capacity to lead in the Security Council by advocating for resolutions that focus on humanitarian aid and civilian protection, moving beyond political interests.  

To achieve lasting peace, the international community must not only implement the ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis, but also work toward a solution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. Inspired by President Jimmy Carter’s legacy of diplomacy and negotiation, this moment demands bold, action-oriented steps. These include focusing on diplomatic efforts that prioritize human rights and establishing mechanisms for accountability.  

Engaging regional and international actors in a constructive dialogue and supporting efforts toward rebuilding and reconciliation could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the peace process. This approach goes beyond cease-fires, addressing the root causes of the conflict and paving the way for a comprehensive peace that honors the dignity of all parties.   

The world is watching, and history will note the actions taken in this pivotal moment. It is time for decisive, compassionate action toward a just and lasting peace.  

Carol Daniel Kasbari is senior associate director of the Conflict Resolution Program at The Carter Center.