On Monday morning, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza throughout the month of Ramadan. The resolution also called for the prompt and unconditional release of all hostages.
The United States chose to abstain rather than exercising its veto power, marking the first successful adoption of a ceasefire resolution by the council following four previous unsuccessful attempts. All other members voted in favor of the resolution.
The U.S. had intended to veto any resolution that did not address the issue of hostages alongside the ceasefire call. However, the U.S. did not veto Monday's resolution because it addresses both issues, although the wording differs from the resolution proposed by the U.S., as noted by one of the diplomats.
The draft resolution was presented by the non-permanent members of the Security Council, which include Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, South Korea, and Switzerland.
It emphasizes the necessity for all parties to adhere to their obligations under international law, condemning all attacks against civilians and acts of terrorism. The resolution highlights the illegality of hostage-taking under international law.
The authors of the resolution also voice concern regarding the dire humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip. They call for increased efforts to enhance humanitarian assistance and safeguard civilians.
The draft resolution explicitly demands an immediate ceasefire throughout the month of Ramadan, to be respected by all parties, with the aim of achieving a lasting and sustainable ceasefire. Additionally, it demands the prompt and unconditional release of all hostages.
