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UNSC calls for expanded humanitarian access throughout Gaza
The resolution received overwhelming support with 13 votes in favor; Russia and the United States chose to abstain from voting.
United Nations security Council / X/@UN News
The United Nations Security Council passed a resolution aimed at boosting humanitarian aid to Gaza, overcoming delays as the United States lobbied for softened language on calls for a ceasefire. The resolution, which seeks steps "to create the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities," received 13 votes in favor, none against, with the US and Russia abstaining.
The vote comes amid international appeals to end the conflict, marked by intense Israeli attacks on Gaza since the terror attack of October 7. The humanitarian situation in the besieged strip has reached critical levels, with over 90% of Gaza's 2.3 million residents displaced. UN officials describe conditions under Israeli siege and bombardment as "hell on earth."
Negotiations over the past week aimed to find language acceptable to the US, which holds veto power. The original draft called for an "urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities" and increased UN control over aid deliveries. The adopted resolution opts for less explicit language on a ceasefire and maintains Israel's control over aid.
US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield called the negotiations tough but successful. While some aid has reached Gaza, addressing the humanitarian crisis fully requires an end to hostilities, aid groups argue. UN chief Antonio Guterres highlighted obstacles to aid distribution created by the offensive.
Before the vote, Russia proposed an amendment to strengthen ceasefire language, accusing the US of neutering the resolution. The US countered by pointing to Russian actions in Ukraine. Critics argue the US has shown a double standard, condemned Russia while supporting Israel despite accusations of similar conduct.
The US faced criticism for vetoing a UNSC ceasefire resolution earlier this month and dissenting on a General Assembly resolution. The majority of Security Council and General Assembly members support a ceasefire to facilitate aid.
Amid the conflict, the UN called for an investigation into alleged killings of unarmed Palestinians by Israeli troops. Hospitals, schools, medical workers, mosques, and churches have also been targeted. Israel aims to dismantle Hamas, the governing Palestinian armed group in Gaza, following a deadly attack on southern Israel.
Since the commencement of the Israeli retaliatory bombardment and offensive, the United Nations reports that 20,000 civilians have lost their lives. As of Thursday, the northern enclave of Gaza is left without any operational hospitals, leaving injured parents stranded in these facilities, where, tragically, they are described by the UN health agency WHO as "waiting to die."
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