Stalemate in UN Resolution Talks Over Gaza Aid and Ceasefire

The United Nations Security Council faces a deadlock in passing a resolution aimed at delivering crucial aid to Gaza, with the United States playing a pivotal role. The vote, initially scheduled for December 18, was delayed twice as negotiations intensified to address American concerns. The U.S. insists on omitting references to a cessation of hostilities, emphasizing Israel’s right to self-defense against perceived threats.

Another sticking point involves placing the UN in charge of inspecting aid trucks entering Gaza, bypassing current Israeli inspections. The draft resolution, initially calling for an “urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities,” was modified to a more diluted version urging the “urgent suspension of hostilities.” Tensions persist as the U.S. seeks a balance between supporting its ally Israel and addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza. The outcome remains uncertain, echoing past Security Council divisions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.