After four failed attempts, the U.N. Security Council has scheduled a vote on a fifth resolution on the Israel-Hamas war which would call for “urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors throughout the Gaza Strip.”
Quick Read
- U.N. Security Council Vote on Israel-Hamas War: The U.N. Security Council is set to vote on a resolution regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, with this being the fifth attempt. The resolution calls for “urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors throughout the Gaza Strip.”
- Language of the Resolution: The draft’s language has been modified from a “demand” to a “call” for humanitarian pauses and corridors, and similarly for the release of hostages by Hamas. These changes are likely aimed at gaining broader support.
- Legally Binding Nature of Resolution: While U.N. Security Council resolutions are legally binding, including those that “call” for actions, their effectiveness often depends on the willingness of involved parties to comply.
- Expectation of Adoption: Sponsored by Malta and following extensive negotiations, there is an expectation among several diplomats that the resolution will be adopted. It requires a minimum of nine affirmative votes and no vetoes from any of the five permanent council members (the U.S., Russia, China, Britain, and France).
The Associated Press has the story:
UN Security Council plans to vote on request for ‘Humanitarian pauses’ in Gaza
Newslooks- UNITED NATIONS (AP)
After four failed attempts, the U.N. Security Council has scheduled a vote on a fifth resolution on the Israel-Hamas war which would call for “urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors throughout the Gaza Strip.”
The final draft to be voted on Wednesday afternoon watered down that language from a “demand” to a “call.” It also watered down a demand for “the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups” to a call.
U.N. Security Council resolutions are legally binding — including calls — but in practice many parties choose to ignore the council’s requests for actions.
Malta, one of the council’s 10 elected members who sponsored the resolution, called for the vote after lengthy negotiations, and several diplomats said they expect it to be adopted. That requires nine “yes” votes in the 15-member council, and no veto by one of its five permanent members – the U.S., Russia, China, Britain and France.
