The Russian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia, has criticized United Nations Security Council Resolution 2728, which called for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip during Ramadan, stating it was “insufficient” and simply “not implemented,” according to the Arab World News Agency. Nebenzia, without specifying, demanded penalties for those he described as violators of the Security Council’s resolutions on the Middle East.
Russian news agency TASS reported Nebenzia’s remarks during a Security Council session on Wednesday, saying that Russia believes the council will soon revisit the implementation of a permanent ceasefire in the sector.
Nebenzia stated, “Ramadan has passed, and the question of a long-term ceasefire looms over us once again. We believe that the Security Council will soon consider this matter.”
The Russian representative emphasized that the only way to halt what he described as a disaster in Gaza is an immediate and widespread cessation of fighting and the smooth, unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to all needy residents of Gaza.
The Security Council adopted the resolution on Gaza last March, calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip during Ramadan, leading to a permanent ceasefire and the unconditional release of all detainees.
The Security Council then voted in favor of the resolution, proposed by the elected members of the council and supported by the Arab Group, with 14 votes in favor while the United States abstained.
The situation in Gaza since the war began on October 7 has been dire and devastating. The conflict has resulted in extensive casualties and significant destruction. As of the latest reports, thousands of people have been killed and injured, with substantial damage to infrastructure, including homes, schools, and health facilities. Over half of Gaza’s homes and 80% of its school buildings have been damaged or destroyed, and many healthcare facilities are barely operational.
The economy of Gaza has been almost completely devastated, with more than 200,000 jobs lost, amounting to about 90% of the pre-conflict workforce. The region’s GDP has seen an 80% decrease, severely impacting the livelihoods of its residents. Essential sectors such as agriculture and construction have nearly ceased, affecting food security and increasing dependency on humanitarian aid.
Humanitarian access remains a significant challenge, with severe shortages of food, water, and basic supplies. Efforts to provide emergency assistance are hindered by movement restrictions and the closure of key crossings, which also affects the availability of essential goods like animal feed.
