UN Security Council postpones Gaza vote again, US signals support.

The UN Security Council has once again postponed the vote on a resolution addressing the conflict between Hamas and Israel. The latest draft version, according to diplomatic sources, emphasizes “urgent steps to immediately allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access” and calls for creating conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities. Notably, it does not explicitly demand an immediate end to the fighting.

The United States, despite previous opposition during the resolution’s drafting, has signaled its readiness to support it in its current form. The draft, sponsored by the United Arab Emirates, underwent amendments to secure a compromise, leading to ongoing diplomatic wrangling at the UN headquarters in Manhattan.

The resolution tackles crucial issues, such as facilitating humanitarian assistance routes, but has faced challenges in finding common ground among Security Council members. Israel, supported by the U.S., remains opposed to the term “cease-fire,” contributing to the ongoing diplomatic discussions. These deliberations are occurring against the backdrop of deteriorating conditions in Gaza and a rising death toll.

Despite the complexities in reaching an agreement, the diplomatic tussle reflects the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing conflict. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with a warning from the UN’s hunger monitoring system highlighting the imminent threat of acute food insecurity for every person in the war-torn region in the next six weeks. The international community’s efforts are crucial to achieving a resolution that addresses both the immediate humanitarian needs and the broader complexities of the conflict between Hamas and Israel.