US proposes Gaza cease-fire resolution at UNSC

The resolution also opposes any potential large-scale ground offensive by Israel in Rafah

The U.S. has presented a new draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), suggesting a temporary cease-fire to halt Israel’s ongoing war in Palestine. The resolution also opposes any potential large-scale ground offensive by Israel in Rafah.

This move follows the U.S.’ indication of vetoing an Algerian-drafted resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, citing concerns about its potential impact on ongoing negotiations involving the U.S., Egypt, Israel and Qatar aimed at securing a pause in the conflict and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

While previously reluctant to use the term “cease-fire” in U.N. actions related to Israel’s war on Palestine, the U.S. draft resolution aligns with the language used by President Joe Biden in recent discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The proposed resolution emphasizes support for a temporary cease-fire in Gaza, contingent upon the release of all hostages, and calls for unrestricted humanitarian assistance.

For the resolution to pass, it requires at least nine affirmative votes and no vetoes from the permanent Security Council members: U.S., France, Britain, Russia, or China.

The U.S. draft resolution also asserts that a significant ground offensive into Rafah under current circumstances would result in further harm to civilians and their displacement, potentially into neighboring countries.

This stance reflects growing international concern over Israel’s plans to enter Rafah, a city where a significant portion of Gaza’s population has sought refuge, raising fears of exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and risking a significant loss of life, as warned by the U.N.

Source: Newsroom

#haber#