The Associated Press reports that the United States has finished drafting a resolution for the UN Security Council regarding the Gaza conflict. This move is the final step before requesting a vote on the document, which supports international efforts to immediately cease fire and release hostages being held.
The final draft of the resolution states, “It unequivocally supports the international diplomatic efforts to implement an immediate and sustainable ceasefire, as part of an agreement to release hostages and to allow for the enhancement of lasting peace to alleviate humanitarian suffering.”
According to the report, the timing for the United States to request a vote from the 15-member Security Council on the negotiated text from the past month was not immediately clear. The resolution needs the support of at least nine countries and no veto from the United States, France, Britain, Russia, or China to be adopted. The United States may make additional amendments to the draft.
The United States intends to link any Security Council international support for a ceasefire with the release of hostages held by Hamas. The draft resolution also condemns Operation Al-Qassam Flood and emphasizes concerns that an Israeli ground assault on Rafah in southern Gaza will lead to further harm and displacement of civilians, including to neighboring countries.
Previously, Washington had opposed the use of the term “ceasefire”. During the ongoing five-month war, Washington used its veto power to block three resolution drafts, including two that demanded an immediate ceasefire. Washington typically protects Israel at the United Nations but has abstained from voting twice, allowing the council to adopt resolutions aimed at enhancing aid delivery to Gaza and calling for extended truces in the fighting.
