The UN Security Council is set to cast a vote on a Gaza resolution

The adoption of a new UN resolution aimed at facilitating critical aid to Gaza has encountered delays due to two key issues concerning the United States. These issues include the inclusion of language about halting hostilities and the proposal to place the UN in charge of inspecting aid trucks entering Gaza.

Initially scheduled for a vote on Monday, the Arab-sponsored resolution was postponed to Wednesday as negotiations intensified, particularly to avoid a potential U.S. veto. John Kirby, spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council, emphasized the importance of the global community understanding the events of October 7, when Hamas launched attacks, and Israel’s right to defend itself.

The resolution’s earlier draft demanded an “urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities.” However, this language was modified in the latest draft to a call for the “urgent suspension of hostilities,” aiming for safe humanitarian access and steps towards a sustainable halt to hostilities.

The U.S. has previously objected to language suggesting a cessation of hostilities, and diplomats have indicated that this remains a contentious point. Another issue is the resolution’s call for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to establish a mechanism for monitoring aid deliveries, bypassing the current Israeli inspection process.

On December 8, the U.S. vetoed a Security Council resolution, despite widespread support, calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The General Assembly later passed a similar resolution with a large majority.

The Security Council’s previous unified action on November 15, with the U.S. abstaining, focused on “urgent and extended humanitarian pauses,” unimpeded aid deliveries, and the unconditional release of all hostages.

The U.S. has consistently sought condemnation of Hamas’ surprise attacks on Israel and acknowledgment of Israel’s right to self-defense, elements not included in the resolutions presented or in the latest draft.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has expressed readiness for another humanitarian pause and additional aid to facilitate the release of hostages. However, Ambassador Lana Nusseibeh of the United Arab Emirates stressed the need for the new resolution to go beyond the November 15 resolution.

While Security Council resolutions are legally binding, they are often disregarded in practice. General Assembly resolutions, though not legally binding, reflect global opinion.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, nearly 20,000 Palestinians have died since Israel declared war on Hamas following the October 7 attacks, which resulted in around 1,200 deaths, primarily civilians, and the capture of about 240 hostages. The Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza does not distinguish between civilian and combatant deaths, and the UN estimates thousands more are buried under Gaza’s rubble.