The UN Security Council is set to vote Wednesday on a resolution demanding “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties.” However, UN diplomats indicate that the United States is likely to veto the proposal.
The resolution, drafted by the council’s 10 elected members, reiterates the urgent call for the release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups following their surprise attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
Describing the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “catastrophic,” the proposed resolution also demands “the immediate and unconditional lifting of all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and its safe and unhindered distribution at scale, including by the UN and humanitarian partners.”
The vote, scheduled for late Wednesday afternoon, comes amid ongoing violence, with near-daily shootings reported following the establishment of aid distribution points inside Israeli military zones by an Israeli and US-backed foundation. This system is claimed to be designed to circumvent Hamas.
The United Nations has rejected this new aid distribution system, stating that it fails to address Gaza’s escalating hunger crisis, allows Israel to use aid as a weapon, and does not comply with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
The draft resolution further demands the restoration of all essential humanitarian services in accordance with these principles, international humanitarian law, and previous UN Security Council resolutions.
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the outcome of this vote could have significant implications for the region and the millions affected by the ongoing conflict.
