The United Nations Security Council has postponed for the third consecutive day a vote on a United Arab Emirates-sponsored resolution calling for an “urgent and sustainable” ceasefire in the Gaza Strip that would allow the passage of humanitarian aid. The vote was postponed to Thursday as part of the intensive negotiations underway within the organization to persuade those members who oppose the resolution, essentially the United States, which has veto power, as reported by the American network CNN. In addition to calling for a ceasefire, the new text calls for a UN-coordinated monitoring mechanism for humanitarian supplies to mitigate the “severe impact” of a “rapidly deteriorating” situation. Even as she notes the reopening of the Israeli-dependent Kerem Shalom border crossing, she advocates for “expanding the delivery and distribution” of aid. The Council countries also call on the parties to respect international law and “strongly” condemn any possible violations, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians and the “forced displacement” of the Gaza Strip population. They also demand the “immediate and unconditional” release of all hostages held by Hamas. Politically, it also reaffirms the “unwavering commitment” to the two-state solution and advocates the unification of administrative control of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip under the leadership of the Palestinian Authority. According to sources cited by CNN, members cannot agree on the language on “cessation of hostilities” – Washington calls for a humanitarian ceasefire rather than a ceasefire – and on the aforementioned assistance mechanism.
