UNSC adopts resolution demanding immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza

NEW YORK: The Security Council has adopted a resolution on the ongoing crisis in Gaza, with 13 votes in favor, and the US and Russia abstaining. The resolution, among others, demands immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale directly to the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip The resolution demands, among other things, adherence to international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, the protection of civilians and civilian property, the opening of crossings with Gaza to bring in humanitarian aid, and the protection of humanitarian workers and ensure their freedom of movement. The UAE-proposed draft resolution called for urgent steps to immediately allow safe, unhindered, and expanded humanitarian access and to create the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities. Speaking before the vote, Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) highlighted th e dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, warning over risks of a looming famine. She noted that the draft resolution is the 'product of extensive consultations and engagement between members of the Council, and concerned parties in particular Egypt and Palestine.' 'The purpose of this text is very simple, it responds with action to the dire humanitarian situation on the ground for the Palestinian people bearing the brunt of this conflict while protecting those trying to deliver lives-saving aid,' she said. Source: Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA