Sunday, July 27, 2014

After the conclusion of the humanitarian cease-fire, which Israeli unilaterally extended on 7/26, the IDF resumes its assault on the Gaza Strip, killing 16 Palestinians. Armed Palestinian groups fire around 20 rockets into Israel in the early morning. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 7/27; PCHR 7/28)

U.S. Pres. Obama speaks to Israeli PM Netanyahu on the telephone, saying it is “strategically imperative” to reach a humanitarian cease-fire that “leads to a permanent cessation of hostilities based on the 11/2012 cease-fire agreement.” Obama also expresses support for the Egyptian diplomatic efforts and affirms that the PA must be part of the solution for the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, Hamas leader Mish‘al says on U.S. television that a lasting cease-fire must be based on lifting the blockade. Also, Hamas calls for a 24-hour humanitarian cease-fire to mark ‘Id. Late at night, the UNSC agrees on a presidential statement drafted by Jordan calling for “an immediate and unconditional humanitarian cease-fire.” Israel, however, rejects the calls from Hamas and the UNSC. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 7/27)