The UN Security Council will convene on Tuesday for a session addressing the war between Israel and Hamas. Ahead of the meeting, the United States circulated a draft resolution strongly condemning Hamas. The resolution calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all Israeli hostages held in Gaza and commends the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, urging its continuation.
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The resolution emphasizes the two-state solution as the favored approach to solving the Israel-Palestine conflict. It urges all parties combating terrorism to adhere to international law concerning humanitarian issues and the protection of human rights. The proposal also condemns the surge of antisemitism globally in the wake of the war.
The Americans consulted with Israeli UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan in drafting the resolution proposal and incorporated some of his feedback. While further changes to the proposal are possible, Washington aims to rally support from eight other council members, reaching a total of nine votes – the minimum threshold required for its approval.
Nevertheless, the prevailing sentiment at the UN is that even if enough supporting nations are garnered, Russia might use its veto power to block the resolution.
The U.S. draft resolution states that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people's right to dignity and self-determination and is designated as a terrorist organization by several council members.
The draft also expresses deep concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and its severe impact on the civilian population, especially children. The resolution underscores the necessity for the local population to have full, swift and safe access to humanitarian aid.