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Almost 1.5 million Palestinians have sought refuge in Rafah, located near the border with Egypt. Photo: Mohammed Abed/Ritzau Scanpix

US advocates for ceasefire in UN draft resolution

The United States has proposed a UN Security Council resolution for a temporary ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The resolution, seen by Reuters, specifically opposes a major land offensive in Rafah, Gaza, citing risks of greater civilian harm and displacement. Notably, the language of the resolution reflects President Biden’s statements, framing a ceasefire where all hostages would be freed and barriers to humanitarian aid removed. With more than a million Palestinians in Gaza seeking refuge in Rafah, concerns over worsening humanitarian conditions have escalated. The US is not seeking an immediate vote on the resolution to allow time for discussions. The draft hints at potential regional peace and security implications if the Rafah offensive proceeds under the current circumstances. Any resolution in the Security Council requires at least nine votes and no veto by any permanent members to be adopted.