The United Nations General Assembly is poised to vote Thursday on a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and the reopening of Israeli border crossings to deliver vital aid. Drafted by Spain, the resolution condemns the use of starvation as a weapon of war and emphasizes Israel’s obligation under international law to ensure aid reaches those in need.
Experts warn that hunger is widespread in Gaza, with about two million Palestinians at imminent risk of famine if Israel does not fully lift its blockade and halt its military operations. Israel renewed its campaign in March after ending a ceasefire with Hamas, intensifying the ongoing conflict.
Last week, the UN Security Council failed to adopt a resolution demanding a ceasefire, with the United States vetoing it due to the absence of a demand for Hamas’ disarmament and withdrawal. The Security Council’s vote saw 14 members in favor, but the veto blocked the measure. In contrast, the General Assembly, with 193 members, is expected to pass the resolution overwhelmingly, although its recommendations are non-binding and serve primarily as an indicator of global opinion.
Despite a ten-week blockade that cut off aid, Israel has recently allowed limited food deliveries through the UN and a new US-backed aid initiative. However, aid efforts face challenges, including shootings at aid sites and restrictions that hamper food distribution, compounded by law and order issues within Gaza.
The draft resolution references a March 28 order by the International Court of Justice, which mandates Israel to open more crossings for vital supplies—an order Israel rejects, denying allegations of acts of genocide in Gaza. The resolution underscores Israel’s responsibility as an occupying power to facilitate humanitarian aid under international law. It also reaffirms support for a two-state solution, with Gaza as part of a Palestinian state, ahead of a high-level UN meeting next week to push for peace negotiations.
While the resolution aims to foster dialogue and aid access, it does not condemn Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel, an event that sparked the ongoing conflict, nor does it call for the militant group’s disarmament, reflecting the differing views within the international community.
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