In the ongoing conflict between the Gaza strip and Israel while placing blame on the United States, Russia’s ambassador to the United Nations has called for a “humanitarian ceasefire”. The Russian draft resolution, introduced to the UN Security Council, calls an instant ceasefire, the secure release of all hostages, and it also strongly condemns all violence and hostilities controlled against civilians and all acts of terrorism. This underscores the importance of ensuring humanitarian aid and securing evacuation of civilians facing distressing situations.
During a closed-door meeting, the draft solution was shared with the 15-member UN Security Council and the Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia emphasized the significance of ending the bloodshed and restarting peace negotiations, eventually leading to the formation of a Palestinian state.
Nebenzia condemned the United States for its discerning role in the conflict and conveyed disappointment with European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen for her reply to Israeli air force attacks on civilian infrastructure in the Gaza strip.
The conflict had increased rapidly after Hamas, the palestinian armed and political group, started an important assault on Israel, which resulted in a high death toll. Israel’s response had been even deadlier, with an escalating death toll among Palestinians.
The draft resolution was presented as countries prompted Israel to hold off its assaults on northern Gaza, where over a million civilians had been forced to evacuate, a task the UN deemed “impossible.” Noteworthily, the resolution refers to Israel and the Palestinians without explicitly naming Hamas, which brought concerns among some UN Security Council members.
A UNSC resolution requires at least nine votes in favor and no votes from the permanent members (the US, Britain, France, China, or Russia). The United States, traditionally supportive of Israel, has historically shielded its ally from Security Council action, which adds a layer of complexity to the situation.
The outcome and timing of the vote on the Russian draft resolution remain uncertain. Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict has left Gaza without essential resources such as water, electricity, and internet access. Concerns are rising over the increasing casualties, with a significant number of them being women and children. The situation in the region remains dire, with international efforts, including those at the United Nations, being closely watched to address the humanitarian crisis and seek a path towards peace and stability.
