This Monday’s program announced the vote on another resolution, introduced by the 10 non-permanent members, after a questioned draft presented by the US delegation was vetoed by China and Russia, whose representations questioned the true intentions of the said resolution, considering it diluted, unilateral and extremely politicized depending on the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. However, they announced that they would support the new project, which is backed by the Arab Group.

The bloc urged Council members “to act with unity and urgency” and vote in favor of the resolution “to stop the bloodshed, preserve human lives, and prevent further human suffering and destruction.” “It is time for a ceasefire,” says a statement issued on Friday night.

The new proposal calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire during the holy month of Ramadan – between March 10th and April 9th – leading to a permanent and sustainable cessation of the conflict, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and emphasizes the urgent need to protect civilians and deliver humanitarian aid throughout the enclave.

However, the proposal seems threatened by the United States delegation, which has already vetoed three resolutions.

The permanent representative of the United States to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, warned the Council that the current text of the resolution “does not support sensible diplomacy in the region,” and announced a possible veto by the United States, pointing out that the document “could give Hamas an excuse to abandon the agreement that is on the table.”

So far, the Security Council has only adopted two resolutions that recognize the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and call for more access to aid on the ground.

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