United States circulates rival U.N. resolution for temporary cease-fire in Gaza

The United States has put forward a rival resolution in the United Nations Security Council regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This comes in the wake of the rejection of an Arab-backed resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in the region. The U.S. proposed resolution focuses on establishing a temporary cease-fire, emphasizing the release of hostages taken from Israel and calling for the unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid.

U.S. proposal for cease-fire and humanitarian aid

The U.S. draft resolution, revealed on Monday, underlines the need for a temporary cease-fire, contingent on the release of hostages taken from Israel after the October 7th attack by Hamas. Additionally, it advocates for the lifting of all restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid, stating that these actions would contribute to creating conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities as per the council's resolution adopted on December 22nd.

Furthermore, the U.S. draft resolution opposes Israel's planned major ground offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The resolution also emphasizes the potential displacement of civilians and its implications for regional peace and security, mentioning the possibility of displacement into neighboring countries such as Egypt.

Upcoming vote and U.S. diplomatic efforts

The Security Council is set to vote on the Arab-backed draft resolution circulated by Algeria, representing the 22 Arab nations, on Tuesday morning. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield has stated that the United States has been working on a hostage deal for months, aiming to establish a period of calm that would allow for efforts to build a more enduring peace. The U.S. President, Joe Biden, has been actively engaging with leaders from Israel, Egypt, and Qatar to advance the proposed deal.

U.S. Deputy Ambassador Robert Wood emphasized that the Algerian draft is not an effective mechanism to achieve the desired outcomes of releasing hostages, increasing aid, and securing a prolonged pause in the conflict. He indicated that the U.S. proposed resolution presents an alternative option, and discussions will continue with allies to progress with the new proposal.

The Arab-backed resolution, supported by a significant number of U.N. member countries, aims to secure an immediate humanitarian cease-fire and the release of hostages. It also emphasizes compliance with international law, protection of civilians, and rejects the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians.

The draft resolution also expresses grave concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and reiterates the urgent need for unhindered humanitarian access throughout the territory, particularly due to reports that a quarter of the population is facing starvation.

The ongoing debate and diplomatic efforts in the Security Council reflect the international community's deep concerns about the escalating conflict in Gaza and the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis. The upcoming vote will be crucial in determining the course of action regarding the cease-fire and humanitarian aid in the region.