UNSC adopts resolution calling for immediate ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan
The UN Security Council adopted a resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza for the first time since October 7. While this decision only calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan, it can lead to a lasting and sustainable peace.
The 15 members of the UN Security Council voted for the draft resolution drafted by non-permanent members - Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Switzerland.
The draft resolution was adopted with 14 "yes" and 1 "abstention" votes. The US abstained from the vote.
After long negotiations, it was agreed on the phrase "permanent ceasefire" in the draft resolution. At the last minute, the US delegation asked to change the text of the draft resolution by replacing the word "permanent" with the word "indefinite". In this way, the US is believed to have added flexibility to the ceasefire process.
The United States vetoed an amendment proposed by Russia that changed the text to its original form before the vote.
After October 7, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza for the first time.
The Ramadan truce must become a permanent truce
The resolution mentions the resolutions of the UN Security Council adopted so far on the issue of Palestine and emphasizes that all parties are obliged to comply with international law, international humanitarian law and international human rights laws.
The resolution condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as all terrorist acts, and noted that taking prisoners is a violation of international law.
The document expressed deep concern over the dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and praised the diplomatic efforts being made by Egypt, Qatar and the United States.
The resolution called for an "immediate Ramadan ceasefire that is respected by all parties and a lasting and sustainable ceasefire, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages" and called for humanitarian and medical access to them . .
The resolution calls on parties to fulfill their obligations under international law with respect to detainees.
The resolution emphasizes the importance of an immediate increase in the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and calls for the removal of all obstacles to the protection of civilians and the provision of necessary humanitarian aid.
The decision states that the situation will be closely monitored.
US draft resolution
The US draft resolution, which was voted on on March 22 and vetoed by China and Russia , was opened for negotiations on February 20 . The draft resolution linked the Gaza ceasefire to the release of hostages and called for diplomatic support.
In its draft, the US described Hamas and other groups, which are considered Palestinian resistance forces, as "terrorist and extremist" and emphasized that they "do not represent the Palestinian people."
