The United Nations Security Council is set to vote later today (Wednesday) on a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and full access for humanitarian aid, a proposal that is widely anticipated to be vetoed by the United States.
This marks the Council’s first formal vote on the matter since November, when the U.S., a staunch ally of Israel, previously blocked a similar resolution aimed at halting the violence.
According to a draft of the latest resolution obtained by AFP, the 15-member body “demands an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties.”
It further urges the “immediate, dignified and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups.”
Citing the “catastrophic humanitarian situation” in Gaza, the text also calls for lifting all restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the region.
The resolution is scheduled for a vote at 4:00 pm Wednesday (2000 GMT). However, diplomats told AFP that they anticipate a U.S. veto. Efforts by the 10 elected Council members to reach a compromise with Washington reportedly failed.
