UN reconsiders Gaza truce: Ceasefire vote looms
The United Nations Security Council is primed to vote on a revised proposal for a Gaza ceasefire on Tuesday, marking a potential shift in the international response following the United States' earlier veto of a similar resolution, as reported by The Guardian.
"The postponement of the vote reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts to address U.S. concerns over the initial wording," a spokesperson for the U.N. Secretary-General confirmed. "While the U.S. remains averse to the term 'cessation of hostilities,' it has indicated openness to a resolution calling for a 'suspension of hostilities.'"
Arab nations played a key role in negotiating the revised text, aiming to bridge the gap between the United States and Israel, similar to their previous efforts leading to humanitarian pauses in October and December. The revised resolution avoids explicit criticism of either side, opting for a broader condemnation of all acts of violence and a call for unconditional hostage release.
Observers speculate that this move may signal growing American frustration with Israel's military tactics in Gaza. Recent visits by U.S. diplomats urging changes yielded limited results, and supporting a suspension of hostilities at the U.N. would send a clear message of dissatisfaction to the Israeli government.
Previously, the U.S. had blocked ceasefire resolutions citing the absence of clear condemnation of Hamas, which it holds responsible for a deadly attack on Israeli civilians in October. However, the overwhelming support for a ceasefire expressed by the UN General Assembly on December 12 appears to be exerting significant pressure on Washington.
With the revised resolution potentially paving the way for a compromise, the Security Council vote on Tuesday will be closely watched. It remains to be seen whether the U.S. will break with its previous stance and ultimately allow the ceasefire proposal to succeed.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
