In a significant development, the United Nations Security Council has unanimously approved a resolution calling for humanitarian pauses, increased aid, and the creation of conditions for a sustainable end to the fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The resolution, which followed days of closed-door negotiations, seeks urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors throughout the Gaza Strip to ensure rapid and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance.

Notably, the resolution received unanimous support from the Security Council members, with the United States and Russia abstaining from voting instead of exercising their veto power. The abstention by the US, a permanent member of the council, was due to the text's failure to include a condemnation of Hamas, a concern that was voiced by US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield. Despite this, she commended the resolution for addressing the urgent need for humanitarian aid.

During the "marathon negotiations," the US was keen on avoiding another veto after facing criticism for vetoing a previous Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire. The new resolution focuses on laying the groundwork for a sustainable cessation of hostilities through urgent steps. The US diplomat emphasized the importance of creating the right conditions for a ceasefire, acknowledging the ongoing dispute over the timing of it.

A major sticking point in the negotiations revolved around the call for the UN to establish a monitoring mechanism in Gaza. The US argued against this proposal, stating that it would be burdensome and hinder the delivery of vital assistance. The diplomat expressed concerns about the feasibility of setting up a new monitoring system during the current crisis and the potential disruption it could cause.

The resolution was drafted by the United Arab Emirates and underwent revisions to ensure broader support. Russia attempted to amend the language of the resolution just before the vote, advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities, but their amendment was vetoed by the US. Israel expressed gratitude towards the US for addressing problematic elements in the resolution and commended their efforts.

The resolution comes after the United Nations General Assembly, last week, demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, with the US also voting against it. The Biden administration has recently voiced growing concerns about the severity of the conflict in Gaza. President Joe Biden has been in discussions with his national security team and officials from the US and the UN regarding the resolution.

Although compromises were made during the negotiations, the resolution deplores all acts of terrorism without specifically naming Hamas. This marks a notable shift from previous resolutions and reinforces the responsibility of Hamas for the conflict. While the General Assembly vote carries political weight, the Security Council resolution holds greater legal significance.

The approved resolution is expected to provide a framework for increased humanitarian aid and facilitate the creation of conditions for a sustainable end to the conflict. Efforts are now focused on implementing the resolution and ensuring the delivery of critical assistance to the people of Gaza.

Overall, the resolution represents an important step towards addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and finding a sustainable solution to the ongoing conflict.