Dubai, UAE — The United States has proposed a rival draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council, emphasizing its support for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, Reuters reported.
The proposed resolution echoes the language US President Joe Biden’s said he used in his recent discussions with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, although Washington has been hesitant to use the term “ceasefire” in UN actions regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The draft text expresses concern over Israel’s planned ground offensive into Rafah, warning of the potential for further harm to civilians and their displacement, which could affect neighboring countries and regional peace and security, the report said.
It remains unclear when or if the draft resolution will be put to a vote. Algeria had previously requested a council vote on its own draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, which the U.S. signaled it would veto.
The U.S. has historically shielded Israel from UN action but has abstained from certain resolutions aimed at humanitarian aid for Gaza.
Negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas involve the U.S., Egypt, Israel, and Qatar.
Algeria’s initial draft resolution, introduced over two weeks ago, has raised concerns about potentially disrupting ongoing negotiations.