Arab countries at the United Nations are preparing to introduce a Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, according to sources on Wednesday. The resolution aims to ensure unimpeded humanitarian relief and prevent the transfer of residents of Gaza to different locations, which Arab countries believe would amount to forced collective punishment and violate international law.

However, the United States has publicly expressed its opposition to the draft resolution. Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour mentioned having productive discussions with the US Ambassador but emphasized that it is time for the UN to take action with a ceasefire resolution. Mansour also stated that the "internal business" of the United States should not interfere with international efforts.

The Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide expressed concerns shared by other senior United Nations officials regarding Israel's plans for a full military incursion in Rafah. Such an operation could have disastrous consequences for civilians in the area. The special adviser emphasized the need to prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international humanitarian law.

In response to these concerns, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his intention to order a military operation in Rafah after the civilian population is evacuated, as stated in a new statement. President Joe Biden, however, had previously advised Netanyahu that the operation should only proceed if the safety of the people sheltering in Rafah is ensured. World leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and the World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, have appealed to Israel to avoid a ground operation in Gaza's most populated city.

FBI Director Christopher Wray made an unannounced trip to Israel and held discussions with Israeli law enforcement and intelligence officers. During the meeting, the threat landscape facing both countries was discussed, and Wray reiterated the FBI's support to Israel following the October 7 attacks. Wray also highlighted the importance of the collaborative work between the FBI and its Israeli partners to combat threats posed by Hamas, Hizballah, Iran, and other groups, as well as provide assistance to US victims of the attack.

Addressing the escalating armed hostilities in Rafah and the southern Gaza Strip, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) issued a stern warning. The ICRC emphasized the utmost importance of protecting civilian lives and infrastructure, urging all parties involved to adhere to international humanitarian law. Currently, Rafah is home to approximately 1.4 million Palestinians, many of whom have been displaced from other parts of Gaza. The city is facing severe shortages of essential resources like food, water, and healthcare.

As tensions continue to rise in Gaza, the push for a UN Security Council resolution for an immediate ceasefire remains a crucial issue. The international community, particularly Arab countries, is intensifying efforts to alleviate the impact on civilians and provide much-needed humanitarian relief.