The United States is set to present a resolution to the U.N. Security Council on Friday, urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and calling for an Israel-Hamas hostage agreement. This move intensifies pressure on Israel to facilitate more humanitarian aid and enhance civilian protection.
According to Nate Evans, spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the United Nations, the resolution is the result of extensive consultations with Security Council members.
The resolution signals a tougher stance by Washington towards Israel compared to earlier in the conflict. Previously, the U.S. had avoided endorsing the term “ceasefire” and had vetoed proposals containing calls for immediate cessation of hostilities.
The draft resolution, as reviewed by Reuters, advocates for an “immediate and sustained ceasefire” lasting approximately six weeks to safeguard civilians and facilitate humanitarian assistance. It supports diplomatic efforts led by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar for ceasefire negotiations and underscores the need to utilize the ceasefire period to pursue lasting peace.
The Israeli embassy in Washington has not yet responded to requests for comment.
For the resolution to pass in the Security Council, it requires at least nine affirmative votes without any veto from the permanent members – the U.S., France, Britain, Russia, or China.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism about the ongoing talks in Qatar, which focus on a six-week truce and the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees.
The primary obstacle remains Hamas’ insistence on linking hostage release to a comprehensive ceasefire, while Israel advocates for a temporary cessation of hostilities only.
The U.S. has insisted that any Security Council support for a ceasefire be tied to the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Hamas initiated hostilities on Oct. 7, resulting in casualties and the capture of hostages.
The resolution also aims to facilitate increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, where severe food shortages persist.
Throughout the conflict, the U.S. has vetoed three draft resolutions, including two demanding an immediate ceasefire. The latest veto was justified by concerns that Security Council action could disrupt ceasefire negotiations.
While the U.S. traditionally supports Israel at the U.N., it has also abstained on occasions, allowing resolutions for increased aid and temporary halts in fighting to pass.
Source – Reuters
