The US, Israel’s closest ally, is the draft’s sponsor. In recent months, the US has vetoed three resolutions requesting a ceasefire.
The protection of civilians and the ability for humanitarian aid to reach over two million Palestinians are deemed to depend on the “imperative” cessation of hostilities.
There is hope that the 15-member council will approve the resolution, according to US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield. Moscow, meanwhile, has stated that “anything that doesn’t call for an immediate ceasefire” will not suffice. The document’s deputy UN ambassador has expressed doubts about its wording. What qualifies as essential? It is necessary for me to give you $100, but it is not really $100.
In other news, Israel’s chief spy is en route to Qatar, where negotiations are underway over a potential ceasefire.
The US is mediating the talks, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism that an agreement might be reached.
The bargaining process is ongoing. We continue to put pressure on Doha to reach a deal as the differences narrow. There remains difficult work ahead to reach that point. I still believe it is possible, though,” he said.
