UN Security Council to Vote on Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

The United Nations Security Council is set to vote Wednesday on a draft resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution, proposed by the ten elected members of the 15-member body, calls for all parties to halt hostilities without delay, according to diplomatic sources.

The draft text, reviewed by Reuters, also urges the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. Additionally, it emphasizes the urgent need to lift all restrictions on humanitarian aid entering Gaza. The resolution mandates safe, unhindered, and large-scale distribution of aid throughout the enclave, including delivery by U.N. agencies.

Ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip has triggered massive civilian displacement, with families fleeing areas such as Khan Younis following evacuation orders from the Israeli military. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated rapidly, prompting increased international pressure for a ceasefire and access for relief organizations.

For the resolution to pass, it must secure at least nine affirmative votes and avoid a veto from any of the five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, or France. Past ceasefire resolutions have faced vetoes, particularly from the U.S., due to its alliance with Israel, raising uncertainty about the outcome of this vote.

This latest push by elected Council members reflects growing global calls to end the violence in Gaza and ensure humanitarian relief. The outcome of the vote could mark a turning point in international efforts to de-escalate the conflict and protect civilians.