The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) passed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between the Hamas group and Israel in Gaza, Palestine. Reporting from CNN, Monday (25/3/2024), the resolution submitted by the 10 non-permanent members of the UNSC is legally binding and demands an immediate ceasefire in the month of Ramadan, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages, as well as the "urgent need to expand the flow" aid to Gaza.
UN Secretary General António Guterres said failure to implement the resolution was inexcusable. “The Security Council has just approved a long-awaited resolution on Gaza, demanding an immediate ceasefire, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. This resolution must be implemented. Failure is inexcusable,” Guterres said on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The United States (US) abstained from this resolution. The US had previously vetoed a similar resolution calling for a ceasefire. Then on Friday (22/3/2024) they issued their own resolution calling for a ceasefire regarding the release of the defeated hostages after Russia and China vetoed the draft.
The US decision to abstain allowed the resolution to be passed. Meanwhile, 14 other members of the council consisting of 15 countries voted in favor. Monday's UN vote came as tensions rose over Israel's military operation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza.
Based on a release on the official UN website, this resolution contains several important points. Among other things, the UN Security Council reiterated the demands that had been made to Israel and Hamas regarding an immediate ceasefire. All parties are obliged to comply with regulations based on international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
The UN Security Council demands that both parties carry out an immediate and sustainable ceasefire. "Demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and ensure humanitarian access to meet medical and humanitarian needs," said the resolution by the UN Security Council.
As a result of various things happening in the Gaza Strip, the UN Security Council also reiterated its demand to remove all obstacles to the provision of humanitarian assistance on a large scale. The UN Security Council also ensures that all parties are obliged to comply with obligations under international law, and decides to remain active in responding to these problems so that they continue to be in line with international humanitarian law.
The Palestinian Authority, which also took part in the negotiations, welcomed the UNSC's call to immediately implement a ceasefire in Gaza and end the fighting permanently. However, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant decided that his party would not end the war against Hamas until the militants left. [Source: CNN Indonesia]
