UN Security Council resolution on Gaza

UN Security Council resolution on Gaza

News: Resolution 2728 (March 25, 2024): The UNSC demanded an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan, the unconditional release of hostages, and emphasized the urgent need to expand the flow of aid into Gaza. This resolution received 14 votes in favor, with the United States abstaining.

What are UNSC resolutions?
 The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions are formal decisions made by the UNSC to address various global issues. These resolutions hold significant weight in international relations and are legally binding on the member states.
 Purpose: UNSC resolutions aim to maintain international peace and security. They address conflicts, humanitarian crises, and other pressing matters.
 Binding Nature: Resolutions can be legally binding or non-binding. Legally binding resolutions require member states to comply with specific actions or restrictions.

Types of resolutions
 Substantive Resolutions: These address specific issues, such as imposing sanctions, authorizing military actions, or establishing peacekeeping missions.
 Procedural Resolutions: These deal with the council’s internal procedures, such as organizing meetings or adopting agendas.

Voting and Adoption:
 Resolutions are adopted through a voting process. A resolution requires at least nine affirmative votes(including no veto by any of the five permanent members) to pass. (Article 27 of UN charter)
 Permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) have veto power, which means any of them can block a resolution.

Implementation and Monitoring: 
 Once adopted, member states are expected to implement the resolutions. Monitoring mechanisms ensure compliance.

What does the current resolution mean?
 While all UNSC resolutions are typically binding under Article 25 of the UN Charter, the US has deemed the latest resolution non-binding. If a resolution is not adhered to, the Council can vote on a follow-up resolution and impose punitive measures such as sanctions or authorizing an international force. 
 So, in this case, there is high pressure on Israel to comply with the resolution.

What is the Significance of US policy shift towards Israel?
 The US views Israel as a strategic ally in the Middle East. Shared intelligence, military cooperation, and common democratic values contribute to this alliance.
 Pro-Israeli lobbying groups in the US exert significant influence. Politicians often align with pro-Israel stances to secure support from influential constituencies.
 While the US has traditionally supported Israel, there are growing calls from progressive Democrats to take a harder line. Recent policy shifts reflect a more nuanced approach, considering Palestinian rights and the West Bank’s status.

What options does Israel have considering shift in US policy stance?
 Considering long-term approach, Israel must heed the UNSC’s call for a ceasefire and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
 Israel should abide by Abraham accords which calls for improving relations with Arab states. 
 With the US increasingly critical of Israel’s actions and urging for aid delivery to Gaza, Israel may need to align its approach accordingly.