Diplomats have revealed that "the United Nations Security Council will vote later today, Wednesday, on a draft resolution calling for the immediate and extended humanitarian ceasefires and the opening of humanitarian corridors throughout the Gaza Strip for a sufficient number of days to enable aid access." Some diplomats expect that "the council, which is composed of 15 countries, will adopt the resolution, but some countries are likely to abstain from voting."
The draft resolution, which will be voted on later today and was drafted by Malta, calls for "the urgent and extended humanitarian ceasefires and the opening of humanitarian corridors throughout the Gaza Strip for a sufficient number of days to allow ... full, rapid, safe, and unimpeded access for aid."
The text demands compliance with international law, particularly regarding the protection of civilians, especially providing protection for children. The draft resolution also calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all those held by Hamas and other groups, especially children. The draft does not condemn Hamas's actions, which is a point of contention for the United States, an ally of Israel.
The text urges all parties not to deprive civilians in Gaza of essential services and necessary humanitarian aid for their survival, welcomes the initial limited delivery of aid, and calls for its expansion. Any decision requires at least nine votes and for neither the United States, Russia, China, France, nor the United Kingdom to exercise their veto.
