22 Arab nations at UN demand immediate ceasefire in Gaza

Twenty-two Arab countries at the United Nations are urging the UN Security Council to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unhindered humanitarian assistance, and to prevent any transfer of Palestinians out of the territory.

The Arab Group chair this month, Tunisia’s UN Ambassador Tarek Ladeb, told UN reporters on Wednesday that some 1.5 million Palestinians who sought safety in Gaza’s southern city of Rafah face a "catastrophic scenario” if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu goes ahead with a potential evacuation of civilians and military offensive in the area bordering Egypt.

Algeria, the Arab representative on the Security Council, circulated a draft resolution about two weeks ago demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access, apart from rejecting the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians, which has been the subject of intense discussions.

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said last week that the resolution could jeopardise "sensitive negotiations” aimed at achieving a pause in the Israel-Hamas war and release of some hostages taken during Hamas’ surprise Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN ambassador, said on Wednesday that there is "massive support” for the resolution and Arab diplomats have had "very frank discussions” with the US ambassador, trying to get American support.

"We believe that it is high time now for the Security Council to decide on a humanitarian ceasefire resolution after 131 days,” he said. "The space is narrowing for those who are continuing to ask for more time.”

Some Arab countries were pushing for a vote on the Algerian draft this week, but several Arab and council diplomats said a vote is now likely early next week, giving more time for negotiations with the US to avoid a veto. The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because the discussions have been private.

Associated Press