Free Courses Sale ends Soon, Get It Now


‘Humanitarian Pause’

23rd November, 2023

‘Humanitarian Pause’

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

  • Qatar announced the success of mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas, resulting in an agreement for a humanitarian pause.

What is a ‘Humanitarian Pause’?

  • The United Nations defines a “humanitarian pause” as a “temporary cessation of hostilities purely for humanitarian purposes”.
  • Such pauses are usually limited to a defined period, and to a specific area where the humanitarian activities are to be carried out.
  • A pause is usually defined for a specific period and for specific geographic areas. However, there is no standardized approach.

How does it differ from a ceasefire?

  • Unlike a ceasefire, these “humanitarian pauses” deliver only short and temporary stoppages in fighting, agreed to by just one side in the conflict.
  • While there is no official legal definition of a ceasefire, it would normally be considered a longer suspension of the hostilities agreed by both warring parties in a signed document.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Consider the following statements:

1.‘Humanitarian Pause’ is considered as a longer suspension of the hostilities agreed by both warring parties in a signed document.

2.A ‘Humanitarian Pause’ is usually defined for a specific period and for specific geographic areas.

3.A ceasefire delivers only short and temporary stoppages in fighting, agreed to by just one side in the conflict.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 3

B) 2 only

C) All

D) None

Answer: B) Only 2