UN Security Council Resolution on Gaza War Passes Without Condemning Hamas

The United Nations Security Council passed a resolution on November 15th that calls for “urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors” for “a sufficient number of days” to allow full, rapid, safe, and unhindered access for UN agencies and partners throughout Gaza. The resolution also calls for “the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups, especially children, as well as ensuring immediate humanitarian access.” After four unsuccessful attempts to pass any resolution regarding the Gaza war since Hamas’ brutal massacres of Israeli civilians on October 7^th, the Security Council managed to do so this time. The resolution was adopted by a vote of twelve members in favor. No member state voted against the resolution. Three member states abstained (Russia, United Kingdom, and the United States).