UN Security Council adopted resolution on humanitarian aid for Gaza
The UN Security Council voted in favor of a resolution on humanitarian aid for Gaza (photo: Getty Images)
The United Nations Security Council has adopted a resolution with a softened proposal to increase humanitarian aid to the civilian population in the Gaza Strip amid Israeli military operations in the region against Hamas militants, according to Reuters.
The UN resolution does not include a call for a ceasefire in Gaza, and the agreement on the document in the Security Council took place after Israel signaled its intention to expand the ground operation in the Palestinian enclave.
The adopted resolution, instead, urges prompt steps to ensure the immediate, safe, unimpeded, and expanded humanitarian access and to create conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities.
In contrast, the initial draft called for the immediate and sustained cessation of hostilities to ensure access to aid.
What proceeded this
The United States, which provides support to Israel and is a key ally, had threatened to veto the UN Security Council's decision after several days of disputes.
On Friday morning, UN Security Council diplomats once again postponed the vote on the resolution to increase humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
However, later on December 22, Washington decided to abstain after the wording regarding military actions and monitoring aid in the Middle East region was modified. This allowed the resolution to be passed.
The position of Israel and the United States
Israel and the United States oppose a ceasefire, believing that it would only benefit Hamas. In contrast, Washington supports a cessation of hostilities to protect civilians and free hostages held by militants.
The resolution does not weaken the control of the Israel Defense Forces over all aid shipments to Gaza. The IDF monitors limited supplies through the Rafah crossing with Egypt and the Kerem Shalom crossing, controlled by the Israeli military.
Israel-Hamas war
The situation in the region remains highly complex and sensitive, with both sides engaged in a protracted conflict marked by periodic escalations of violence. The events you mentioned highlight the challenges and complexities involved in finding a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
International efforts, including those by the United Nations, often aim to address the humanitarian situation, promote dialogue, and work towards a two-state solution. However, reaching a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement has proven elusive over the years due to deep-rooted historical, political, and territorial issues.
The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously stated that international pressure would not prevent Israel from continuing the war against Hamas.
