Recent developments at the United Nations Security Council have brought attention to a proposed binding resolution regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The resolution, put forth by 10 non-permanent members of the council, aims to impose an end to Israel's military operations against Hamas terrorists.
The Biden administration's stance on this resolution has sparked speculation, with some experts suggesting that President Biden may use this opportunity to send a strong message to the Netanyahu government. Tensions between Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have been strained since Israel initiated its self-defense campaign against Hamas in October 2023.
One key point of contention in the proposed resolution is the failure to address the release of over 100 hostages, including Americans, held by Hamas in Gaza. Critics have drawn parallels to past actions, such as President Obama's decision to allow an anti-Israel resolution to pass in 2016.
While Russia has expressed support for the draft resolution, Israel has raised objections, citing the one-sided nature of the proposal. Israel's ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, criticized the resolution for not linking the call for a cease-fire with the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
Concerns have been raised about potential attempts to delegitimize Israel during the transition period, similar to actions taken in 2016. However, the US State Department has refrained from speculating on its stance regarding the resolution, emphasizing that decisions will be made based on the interests of the United States.
The 10 non-permanent members of the Security Council behind the resolution include Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Switzerland. The proposed resolution has sparked debate and raised questions about the future dynamics of the Israel-Gaza conflict within the international community.