NEW YORK: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is set to vote today on a fresh resolution urging an “urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities” in Gaza, signaling a shift in Washington’s stance as pressure grows on key ally Israel. The move follows the recent blockage by the United States of a Security Council resolution calling for a “humanitarian ceasefire” in the battered Palestinian territory, where Israel has continued its relentless strikes since October 7.
Earlier, the UN General Assembly witnessed overwhelming support for a ceasefire, with 153 out of the UN’s 193 members voting in favor. The upcoming Security Council resolution, introduced by Arab countries with broad international backing, emphasizes the need for an “urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities” to facilitate safe humanitarian access in the Gaza Strip.
The draft resolution reaffirms support for a two-state solution and underscores the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority. The resolution calls for the “immediate and unconditional release of all hostages” and condemns “all indiscriminate attacks against civilians.”
UN Security Council Faces Criticism Over Gaza Situation
The Security Council has faced international criticism for passing only one resolution on Gaza during the ongoing conflict, with five other resolutions rejected, including two due to the US vetoes. While Security Council resolutions are technically binding, compliance is not guaranteed.
US President Joe Biden’s recent warning that Israel risks losing international support due to its “indiscriminate” bombing of Gaza adds urgency to the situation. Advocates, including Human Rights Watch, urge the United States to back its words by pressuring both Israel and Palestinian armed groups to comply with international humanitarian law.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, the Israeli bombardment since October 7 has resulted in the killing of more than 19,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children.
Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour implored for an immediate ceasefire in the face of the “atrocities.”
