Today, the United Nations is scheduled to hold a vote on a resolution proposed by the United States regarding a ceasefire in Gaza. The United States, a strong supporter of Israel, has previously used its veto power in the UN Security Council to prevent the international body from calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Palestinian territory.
In an effort to address the ongoing conflict, the United States will be presenting a draft resolution that urges an “immediate ceasefire.” The resolution is closely tied to the release of hostages being held by Hamas, a Palestinian militant group. The announcement was made by the US representative on Thursday.
The resolution, set to be voted on Friday, aims to lend unwavering support to ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It also highlights the importance of the hostage situation as part of a potential resolution. According to Nate Evans, the spokesperson for US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, this measure presents an opportunity for the Security Council to collectively endorse the diplomatic efforts taking place on the ground and exert pressure on Hamas to accept the proposed agreement.
It is worth noting that the United States has previously utilized its veto power in the UN Security Council to prevent calls for an immediate ceasefire in the Palestinian territory. Following the rejection of an Algerian draft resolution in February that advocated for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in Gaza, US officials have been engaging in negotiations to develop an alternative text. This alternative text focuses on supporting diplomatic efforts for a six-week truce and includes provisions for the release of hostages.
Diplomatic sources indicate that the initial alternative text had limited prospects of gaining approval from the Security Council. As a result, a revised version was circulated among Security Council members on Wednesday. Additionally, another draft resolution is being discussed and may also be presented for a vote on Friday, according to a diplomatic source.
This alternative draft resolution, supported by several non-permanent members of the Council, specifically “demands an immediate humanitarian ceasefire” for the duration of the month of Ramadan. Ramadan commenced on March 10 and is set to conclude on April 9.
