The United Nations Security Council is set to consider a draft resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire for the month of Ramadan and the unconditional release of hostages held in Gaza. The resolution, proposed by 10 countries, explicitly demands a truce during Ramadan and calls for the release of over 100 hostages. The language of the proposal is still being negotiated, and it is unclear whether it will pass the Security Council or receive American support.
China has announced its backing of the resolution, removing a potential obstacle to its passage. The resolution aims to send a strong signal for a cease-fire and an end to the war in Gaza, where approximately 1,200 people were killed and 250 taken hostage in an attack on Israel led by Hamas. The holy month of Ramadan is ongoing, and the resolution is expected to be voted on soon.
The draft resolution is more direct in its demands for an immediate halt to hostilities compared to the failed U.S.-backed resolution. The American proposal had been criticized for not explicitly calling for an immediate halt to fighting, while the new draft straightforwardly demands an end to hostilities. It also condemns all attacks against civilians and all acts of terrorism, specifically addressing the taking of hostages.
The Biden administration has used its veto power multiple times to prevent cease-fire resolutions in the Security Council during the Israel-Hamas conflict, drawing criticism internationally. Despite eleven members voting in favor of a resolution on Friday, permanent members Russia and China vetoed it, leading to its failure. U.N. Secretary General António Guterres has emphasized the need for a cease-fire to prevent further suffering for Palestinians in Gaza, as well as the release of hostages.
The new draft resolution is awaiting a vote in the Security Council and its passage is uncertain. Algeria and Guyana, among other countries, have sponsored the resolution and China has expressed support for it. The resolution aims to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza and put an immediate stop to hostilities, while also advocating for the release of hostages. The draft resolution’s fate and potential impact on the situation in Gaza remain to be seen.
