"UN Security Council Struggles to Avoid US Veto on Gaza Humanitarian Resolution"

The UN Security Council vote on an Arab-sponsored resolution to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza and halt the fighting has been delayed again in an effort to avoid a veto by the United States. The draft resolution, which initially called for an "urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities," has been watered down to "urgent suspension of hostilities" to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access. The United States has opposed language on a cessation of hostilities in the past. Talks are ongoing to persuade the Biden administration to abstain or vote in favor of the resolution. The resolution also demands the release of hostages, adherence to international humanitarian law, and the unification of the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.