How Should Christians React as America Vetoes a Ceasefire in Gaza?

The war on Israel has taken another swift turn as the United States vetoed the Algerian resolution at the United Nations, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. This has been an ongoing, internationally growing concern ever since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023. Yet, for the third time since the war broke out, the United States administration has vetoed a ceasefire and is now drafting and proposing a new resolution that concerns hostage negotiations, according to The Washington Post.

While Israel has every right to defend and protect itself, this proposed draft is calling for Israel not to push ahead and refrain from going into Rafah, where many Palestinians are misplaced and sheltering due to this ongoing war. Now, the United States administration is receiving a lot of backlash for this veto and being widely criticized for putting Palestinian civilian lives at risk.

There has been growing tension when it comes to a hostage deal as more disturbing and heartbreaking footage emerges of families in makeshift shelters along the streets of Rafah and the Egyptian border. However, the pressure is on as March 10, which marks the beginning of Ramadan, Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister, has indicated that an offensive attack would be taking place before then.

According to the Wall Street Journal, this war’s unease and uncertainty are rising worldwide as many leaders and ambassadors are growing impatient with the outcome, sensing that compromises and negotiations are not a strategy. China said that the “veto sends a wrong message,” while France and Qatar also shared their concerns and expressed apprehension (nbcnew.com).

The US administration circulated a draft resolution that called for a temporary ceasefire “as soon as practicable.” Still, the distrust is growing between the alliance between President Biden and Netanyahu, who has vowed to forge ahead and be a powerful force once civilians are allowed to evacuate.

However, while America has stood by Israel and, at this moment, continues to do so, due to the high casualties and hostage situation, along with international pressure, Biden seems to be taking a possible shift in his stance. Earlier this month, Biden gave a lashing remark that Israel’s Defense Forces have been “over the top” and that the military action in Rafah “should not proceed without a credible and executable plan for ensuring the safety of the support of the civilians” (CNN).

Our Reaction as Christians

How are we, as believers, to react to this alarming news?

First, we must understand that God detests war and the loss of any human life (Proverbs 6:16-19). Death was never a part of His perfect plan for creation. However, since we live in a world riddled with sin, conflict will arise. War is sadly a result of the evil in humanity.

That said, Romans 13 gives government the power to use military action when it comes to those who commit evil acts against innocent lives. Israel was attacked on October 7, 2023, by the terrorist Hamas, and many innocent lives were taken. Israel may not be backing down and coming on with strong forces. However, they are within their right to do so. We must also realize that Israelis are dealing with the evil intentions of Hamas, and negotiations aren’t easily made, according to Netanyahu (CNN).

So, we must stand with God rather than take a stance or a side. We must choose to pray for the protection of all innocent lives, for God’s will to be done, and for restoration and peace.

From a Prayerful Point of View

Father, we come to You with heavy hearts, seeking Your divine will during this ongoing war in Israel. We know that the tensions are high, and the world and its leaders are trying to determine the next steps when it comes to this ceasefire resolution. While we are called to submit to our government officials as You command us to (1 Peter 2:11-15), we place our faith and trust in You alone. Please place Your mighty and sovereign hand over the land of Israel and the innocent civilians in Rafah. Please bring forth a resolution to this war and a way for peace. Let Your will be done.

In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.

Alicia Searl is a devotional author, blogger, and speaker that is passionate about pouring out her heart and pointing ladies of all ages back to Jesus. She has an education background and master’s in literacy. Her favorite people call her Mom, which is why much of her time is spent cheering them on at a softball game or dance class. She is married to her heartthrob (a tall, spiky-haired blond) who can whip up a mean latte. She sips that goodness while writing her heart on a page while her puppy licks her feet. Visit her website at aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.