Russian Proposal in the UN Security Council Regarding the War Between Israel and Hamas

A draft seen by Reuters revealed that Russia proposed a resolution to the UN Security Council on Friday concerning the ongoing war between Israel and the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas). The resolution calls for a humanitarian ceasefire, denounces violence against civilians, and condemns all terrorist acts. The one-page draft also requests the release of hostages, access for humanitarian aid, and the safe evacuation of civilians in need of relocation. Diplomats indicated that the text has been submitted to the council. This move follows calls from several countries for Israel to halt attacks on Gaza. The Russian draft refers to both Israel and the Palestinians but does not directly mention Hamas. A diplomat in the council, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated to Reuters, "They did not consult with anyone and did not even mention Hamas, so it is clear they are not serious or aligned with most council members." It is still unclear when or if Russia will present the draft for a vote. The Russian Foreign Ministry reported that Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin met with the Israeli ambassador to Moscow, Alexander Ben Tsvy, on Friday to discuss the current escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The ministry added: "In this context, there was an objective review of the current activities of the UN Security Council and its procedures, focusing on the urgent need to ensure the protection of civilians in both Israel and Palestine to prevent catastrophic humanitarian consequences and the spread of the conflict to other countries in the region." A UN Security Council resolution requires at least nine affirmative votes and the absence of a veto from the United States, the UK, France, China, or Russia. It is well-known that the United States protects its ally Israel from any action in the Security Council.