UN security council faces decisive vote on Gaza cease-fire

The U.N. Security Council prepares to vote on a U.S.-initiated resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, marking a notable change in the U.S.-Israel relationship

The U.N. Security Council will vote early Friday on a critical U.S.-drafted resolution calling for an immediate Gaza cease-fire and the release of all hostages.

This move signals a significant shift in the United States’ approach toward Israel due to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The U.S. proposal was a result of extensive negotiations, condemns terrorism in strong terms, and acknowledges the key mediation roles of Egypt and Qatar.

In the document, as reported by Anadolu Agency, the importance of turning the cease-fire into a sustainable one is emphasized, stating that “Hamas and other terrorist and armed extremist groups in Gaza do not stand for the dignity or self-determination of the Palestinian people.”

“The Security Council determines the imperative of an immediate and sustained ceasefire to protect civilians on all sides, allow for the delivery of essential humanitarian assistance, and alleviate humanitarian suffering and unequivocally supports ongoing international diplomatic efforts to secure such a ceasefire in connection with the release of all remaining hostages,” it adds.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday, “The resolution does call for an immediate cease-fire tied to the release of hostages, and we hope very much that countries will support that.”

This reflects a more assertive U.S. stance than earlier in the war when the U.S. was reluctant to endorse cease-fire calls.

If adopted, this resolution will be the first by the Security Council to explicitly condemn Israel’s atrocities in Gaza that has led to at least 31,988 casualties, mainly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Nate Evans, spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the U.N., highlighted the resolution’s objective, stating, “The measure is an opportunity for the Council to speak with one voice to support the diplomacy happening on the ground and pressure Hamas to accept the deal on the table.”

The draft resolution emphasizes the importance of a sustainable cease-fire, calling for compliance with international law and humanitarian principles. It also supports a two-state solution, recognizing Gaza as part of the territories occupied since 1967.

In addition to the U.S. draft, the “E-10,” or elected 10 members of the Security Council, are also presenting a resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire during Ramadan, reflecting global concern over the crisis.

The outcome of the vote remains uncertain, with the potential for a veto by Russia or other Council members. If the U.S. draft faces rejection, France’s U.N. Ambassador Nicolas de Riviere indicated that an alternative draft demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire might be presented.

Source: Newsroom