UN Security Council Passes Resolution For Enhanced Gaza Humanitarian Aid: US, Russia Abstain

The United Nations Security Council passed a resolution Friday to enhance humanitarian aid to Gaza amid ongoing military operations by Israel — yet it stopped short of demanding an immediate ceasefire.

The resolution emphasizes the need for "safe, unhindered, and expanded humanitarian access throughout Gaza," marking a shift from the original draft, which called for a cessation of hostilities to facilitate aid delivery.

The United States, Israel’s primary ally, initially threatened to veto the motion but abstained after changes were made to the language concerning hostilities and monitoring aid. Russia also abstained, expressing a preference for the inclusion of ceasefire terms.

China’s Ambassador Dai Bing voiced a tempered approval of the resolution, indicating it fell short of expectations. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed hope the resolution would improve aid delivery but stressed that a humanitarian ceasefire is vital for addressing the needs of Gaza’s populace.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield described the resolution as a beacon of hope amid suffering. She underscored the council’s stance on the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and the necessity of humanitarian groups having access to them.

After the vote, Israel’s U.N. ambassador criticized the U.N.’s focus on Gaza aid mechanisms as inadequate, asserting that Israel already facilitates necessary aid. Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen stated Israel's commitment to continue its operations until all hostages are released

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