The U.N. Security Council is scheduled to vote on a resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. This comes after a U.S.-sponsored resolution was vetoed by Russia and China on Friday, which aimed to support an immediate and sustained cease-fire in the Israeli-Hamas conflict.
The resolution to be voted on Monday morning is backed by Russia, China, and the 22-nation Arab Group at the United Nations. The Arab Group has urged all council members to act with unity and urgency to halt the bloodshed, preserve human lives, and avert further suffering and destruction.
The resolution, put forward by the 10 elected council members, aims to establish a two-week cease-fire during Ramadan, with the goal of leading to a permanent sustainable cease-fire. It also emphasizes the urgent need to protect civilians, deliver humanitarian aid, and secure the release of all hostages in Gaza.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in over 32,000 Palestinian casualties, with a significant number of women and children among the dead. The region is facing a dire humanitarian emergency, with reports warning of imminent famine in northern Gaza and the potential for widespread starvation if the war escalates.
The United States has expressed concerns that the resolution could hinder negotiations to halt hostilities by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, raising the possibility of another veto. The U.S. has previously vetoed three resolutions demanding a cease-fire in Gaza, citing concerns about the wording and potential impacts on diplomatic efforts.
Russia and China have criticized the U.S. draft resolution for its ambiguous language and preconditions, arguing that it does not align with global calls for an immediate cease-fire. The Security Council vote on Monday is expected to be a crucial moment in addressing the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
