Russia submitted a new United Nations Security Council resolution on the Israel-Hamas war on Friday, calling for a humanitarian ceasefire and condemning violence against civilians as well as any acts of terrorism.
According to diplomats, the draft resolution also demands the release of hostages, humanitarian aid access, and the safe evacuation of civilians in need. The text was handed to the 15-member council during a closed-door meeting on the conflict on Friday.
The move comes after countries asked Israel to refrain from striking northern Gaza, where over a million residents have mainly ignored an Israeli order to evacuate before its forces went after Hamas militants who massacred Israeli civilians last weekend.
The one-page Russian draft resolution mentions Israel and Palestinians but does not specifically mention Hamas.
“They have not consulted anyone and it does not even mention Hamas, so they are clearly not serious or aligned with most council members”, said a council diplomat.
A United Nations Security Council resolution requires at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes from the United States, United Kingdom, France, China, or Russia. The US has typically protected its ally Israel from any Security Council action.
It was not unclear when or whether Russia would vote on the draft resolution.
On Saturday, Hamas carried off its deadliest attack in Israel’s history, murdering over 1,300 people and taking scores of hostages to Gaza. Israel’s response has been the most intense air strike in its 75-year confrontation with the Palestinians.
According to Gaza authorities, 1,900 people have been killed.
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