Cautious American Optimism: Marco Rubio Foresees Imminent UN Resolution on Gaza to Deploy International Security Force and Warns Against West Bank Violence

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed a level of cautious optimism on Wednesday regarding the near-term prospect of a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution concerning the crisis in the Gaza Strip. Speaking to journalists following the G7 Foreign Ministers meeting held in Canada, Rubio stated that "good" progress was being made in drafting the resolution, which is expected to support the deployment of an international security force in the Strip.

In his remarks, the US Secretary of State clarified the position, stating: "We feel optimistic. I think we are making good progress in drafting the resolution, and we hope to take action on it very soon." This optimism suggests that US diplomatic efforts, in cooperation with international partners, have reached advanced stages towards formulating a framework to address the complex security and humanitarian situation in Gaza after the cessation of military operations.

Warning Against the "Spread of Violence" in the West Bank

Despite the optimism regarding Gaza, Marco Rubio expressed deep and genuine concern over other developments that could potentially derail regional peace efforts. The US Secretary of State emphasized that there is worry that "the recent wave of violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank" might extend and broaden its scope.

Rubio added that the spread of this violence could "create an effect that may undermine what we are doing in Gaza," indicating that destabilization in the West Bank could divert attention, drain resources, and negate any progress made toward a US-backed peaceful resolution in Gaza.

The American Minister affirmed that the US administration is closely monitoring the situation, expressing hope that the situation will be contained: "I hope that doesn't happen. We don't expect it. We will do everything we can to ensure it does not happen." These statements underscore Washington's commitment to maintaining focus on achieving stability in Gaza while simultaneously working to prevent the widening circle of violence in the West Bank, which is a key factor in the regional conflict equation.