Algeria submits UNSC resolution for immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
24 May 2025 11:01
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Algeria’s draft UN resolution urges the immediate lifting of aid restrictions on Gaza and calls for a return to the ceasefire amid worsening humanitarian conditions.

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Workers load humanitarian aid on a truck at the Karm Abu Salem crossing, on May 22, 2025 (AFP)

Algeria has presented a draft resolution to the UN Security Council calling for the immediate and unconditional lifting of all restrictions impeding the delivery and distribution of humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip, according to a document obtained by a RIA Novosti correspondent on Friday.

Resolution demands lifting of aid restrictions, restoration of services

The resolution “demands the immediate and unconditional lifting of all restrictions on the access of humanitarian aid into and its distribution throughout the Gaza Strip as well as the restoration of electricity, water supply, and other essential services in line with international humanitarian law and relevant resolutions of the Security Council.”

Draft expresses 'grave concern' over catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza

The proposed resolution expresses “grave concern over the catastrophic humanitarian situation and the latest developments in the Gaza Strip following the breach of the ceasefire agreement.”

It urges all parties to adhere to their obligations under international law and emphasizes the need to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian crisis.

Mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and US endorsed

The draft text supports ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States aimed at immediately re-implementing the ceasefire agreement in all its phases, as outlined in Security Council Resolution 2735.

'Israel' voices opposition to draft resolution

In response, the Israeli Mission to the UN issued a statement on Thursday expressing its opposition to the Algeria-proposed draft.

According to the statement, the humanitarian resolution will be voted on next Wednesday, May 28.

Palestinians in Gaza enduring 'cruelest phase' of war

On Friday, UN chief Antonio Guterres emphasized that Palestinians in Gaza are "enduring what may be the cruelest phase of this cruel conflict" as "Israel" ramps up its war on the enclave.

"For nearly 80 days, Israel blocked the entry of life-saving international aid," he said in a statement. "The entire population of Gaza is facing the risk of famine.

"The Israeli military offensive is intensifying with atrocious levels of death and destruction."

Guterres says 'needs are massive', 'obstacles are staggering'

Aid began trickling into the Gaza Strip this week for the first time in more than two months, amid condemnation of the Israeli blockade that sparked severe shortages of food and medicine.

But Guterres pointed out that of almost 400 trucks cleared for entry into Gaza through the Karem Abu Salem crossing, supplies from only 115 have been able to be collected.

"The needs are massive -- and the obstacles are staggering," he stressed. "Strict quotas are being imposed on the goods we distribute -- along with unnecessary delay procedures."

"Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law," Guterres indicated. "As the occupying power, it must agree to allow and facilitate the aid that is needed."