On Tuesday, Algeria called for a United Nations Security Council vote regarding a ceasefire in Gaza, but the United States has explicitly stated its intention to veto the proposal. This development follows the International Court of Justice's ruling that Israel must take all possible measures to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza, prompting Algeria to propose a new draft resolution. Despite facing international pressure due to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the US has previously vetoed two resolutions in October and December aimed at establishing a ceasefire.
In the midst of these developments, the US President is engaging in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and leaders from Middle Eastern countries such as Egypt and Qatar. These talks aim to negotiate a hostage deal that would lead to a six-week "prolonged pause in fighting," according to a statement by US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, regarding Algeria's draft proposal. Thomas-Greenfield has criticized the resolution, arguing that it would not achieve the desired outcomes and might even counteract them. She has made it clear that the US does not support the current draft resolution and will prevent its adoption if it comes to a vote.
The latest version of the resolution calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, respected by all parties, condemns the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians, and demands the unconditional release of all hostages. However, Algeria's initiative is seen as potentially jeopardizing ongoing negotiations, according to Thomas-Greenfield.
Since the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas on October 7, 2023, approximately 1,160 individuals in Israel, mostly civilians, have lost their lives, based on figures from Israeli authorities reported by AFP. In response, Israel has conducted continuous airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, resulting in over 29,000 casualties, predominantly among women and children.
Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour has emphasized the urgency of the Security Council adopting a resolution for a humanitarian ceasefire. To date, the Security Council has passed only two resolutions concerning Gaza since the conflict began, one of which focused on facilitating the delivery of large-scale humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory.