The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) adopted on Monday a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the remainder of the holy month of Ramadan.
The resolution, backed by fourteen council members, aims to halt the escalating violence that has plagued the region for weeks.
The resolution, proposed by non-permanent members of the Security Council, emphasised the necessity of a two-week ceasefire during Ramadan, which commenced on 10 March and concludes on 9 April. This period holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.
US opts not to vote
Notably, the United States abstained from the vote, a decision that has garnered attention and sparked debate among global stakeholders. While the US refrained from outright support, other prominent members including Russia, China, and the UK stood in favor of the resolution.
Central to the resolution's demands is the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, underscoring the humanitarian imperative amid the ongoing conflict.
UN chief stresses immediate implementation of resolution
The UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised the imperative of implementing the recently approved resolution by the Security Council regarding Gaza.
Calling for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages, he underscores the resolution's crucial importance. In a post on X, he stresses, "It is imperative that this resolution is enacted. The consequences of failure would be dire."
Israel PM's warning
Prior to the vote, reports surfaced of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strong opposition to the resolution, even threatening to cancel a planned visit to Washington with a delegation if the US did not exercise its veto power.
The adoption of this resolution follows recent developments where a US-sponsored resolution advocating for an "immediate and sustained ceasefire" faced vetoes from Russia and China
Despite this setback, the Biden administration's stance toward Israel appears to be evolving, signaling a shift in diplomatic approach amidst mounting international pressure.
