[ad_1]
The postponement comes after China and Russia vetoed US-backed resolution.
The US, a key ally of Israel, had proposed a resolution emphasising the need for an immediate and lasting ceasefire and condemning a recent attack by Hamas on October 7.
However, Russia and China vetoed this resolution on Friday, with Arab nations also opposing it for not explicitly demanding Israel to halt its Gaza campaign right away.
Israel Army Takes Control Of Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital, Eliminates Hamas Operations Head Faiq Mabhouh
The new ceasefire proposal, originally set for a Saturday vote, has been rescheduled to allow for further discussions.
The revised draft calls for an immediate ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, leading to a lasting and respected ceasefire by all parties. The draft also demands the prompt release of hostages held by Hamas and the removal of barriers hindering humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Palestinian ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, expressed unanimous Arab support for the new resolution, contrasting it with the US-led text which he criticised as biased.
In contrast, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield opposed the resolution, stating concerns that it could hinder diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages and potentially provide an excuse for Hamas to back out of negotiations. The US had previously vetoed similar ceasefire resolutions for the same reason.
Chinese envoy meets Hamas chief Haniyeh after first visit to Israel since Gaza war; Here is What China wants
The latest resolution, while emphasizing the urgency of a ceasefire and its link to diplomatic talks facilitated by Qatar, the US, and Egypt, aims to address the ongoing conflict in a region fraught with tensions.
“If the US is serious about a ceasefire, then please vote in favor of the other draft resolution, clearly calling for a ceasefire,” China’s representative, Zhang Jun, said.
More than 1,160 people, mostly civilians, died on October 7 after Hamas militants infiltrated Israel in the country’s deadliest attack.
Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip. More than 32,000 people, mostly civilians, have died in the retaliatory campaign, according to the Gaza health ministry.
(With AFP inputs)
[ad_2]
Source link