In a decisive move, the United States has introduced a compelling draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council, intensifying calls for an urgent ceasefire in Gaza. The proposed text unequivocally expresses the Council’s “support for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza as soon as practicable,” as revealed in documents obtained by Reuters on Monday.
The draft resolution strategically “determines that under current circumstances a major ground offensive into Rafah would result in further harm to civilians and their further displacement, including potentially into neighboring countries.” It explicitly warns against the grave consequences of such a move, emphasizing that it “would have serious implications for regional peace and security.” Consequently, the proposal staunchly asserts that a major ground offensive should not proceed under the existing circumstances.
The timing and potential voting on this impactful draft resolution remain uncertain. The United States swiftly presented the text following a request from Algeria, aiming for a vote on its draft resolution, which demands an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The proposed U.S. resolution adds a layer of complexity to the Council’s deliberations on addressing the escalating tensions in the region.