NEW DELHI: The US today will be asking the UN Security Council to throw its support behind a resolution which calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel-Hamas hostage agreement. This move aims to intensify pressure on Israel, US’ ally, to permit more humanitarian aid and enhance civilian protection.
Spokesperson for the US mission to the UN, Nate Evans, said that the resolution is the outcome of several rounds of consultations with members of the 15-seat Security Council.

This resolution signals a toughening in Washington’s approach towards Israel. Earlier when the war broke out, the US had been hesitant to endorse the term “ceasefire” and had vetoed proposals advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities. According to a draft seen by Reuters, the resolution proposes an “immediate and sustained ceasefire” lasting approximately six weeks to safeguard civilians and facilitate the distribution of humanitarian aid.

In order to pass in the Security Council, a resolution will require at least nine votes in favour and no veto by the permanent members, the US., France, Britain, Russia or China.

The draft document supports negotiations facilitated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar for a ceasefire and underscores the importance of utilising the ceasefire period to enhance endeavors towards achieving “lasting peace.”