US proposes resolution on temporary ceasefire in Gaza

(Patria) - The United States has proposed a draft UN Security Council resolution emphasizing the body's support for "a temporary ceasefire in Gaza as soon as possible," reports Reuters, which has seen the text.

Washington has so far avoided using the word ceasefire in any UN moves regarding the war between Israel and Hamas, but the draft of the new resolution reiterates phrases that President Joe Biden used last week during talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, VOA recalls.

The draft US resolution also "determines that under the current circumstances, a major ground offensive in Rafah would result in further civilian harm and displacement, potentially into neighboring countries."

The offensive, it states, "would have serious consequences for regional peace and security" and therefore emphasizes that "it should not be undertaken under the current circumstances."

It is not known when the 15-member Security Council might vote on the US resolution submitted after Algeria requested on Saturday that the world body vote on its country's resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

The US Ambassador to the UN quickly signaled that she would veto the Algerian resolution.

Washington traditionally shields its ally Israel from UN actions and has already vetoed Security Council resolutions twice since October 7.

However, it has also abstained twice, allowing the Council to adopt resolutions calling for more aid to Gaza and for immediate and longer humanitarian pauses in the fighting.