UNITED NATIONS – Arab nations are taking a stand at the United Nations, pushing for a resolution that demands an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. Although the United States is expected to veto the resolution, the Arab nations are hoping to showcase widespread global support for ending the Israel-Hamas war.

The vote on the resolution is scheduled for Tuesday morning, despite the anticipated U.S. veto. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield has made it clear that the Biden administration plans to veto the Arab-backed resolution. The administration believes that it may interfere with their ongoing efforts to negotiate a deal between Israel and Hamas, potentially leading to a six-week cease-fire and the release of all hostages taken during Hamas’ surprise attack in southern Israel on October 7.

In a surprising move, the United States has circulated a rival U.N. Security Council resolution, proposing a temporary cease-fire in Gaza tied to the release of hostages and calling for the unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid. The U.S. believes that these actions could create conditions for a sustained cessation of hostilities.

Amid these developments, Arab nations and a significant number of U.N. member countries have been persistently calling for a cease-fire, particularly as Israel’s military offensive in response to the Hamas attack has escalated. With over 29,000 Palestinians killed, according to reports from the Gaza Health Ministry, the need for humanitarian intervention has become increasingly urgent.

The U.S. is working to negotiate a hostage deal, with President Joe Biden engaging in multiple calls with leaders in the region. Although gaps remain, the U.S. sees the deal as the best opportunity to free the hostages and enable aid to reach Palestinians in need.

Despite the anticipated U.S. veto, the Arab Group may take their resolution to the U.N. General Assembly, consisting of all 193 member nations, where it is likely to be approved. Additionally, the Security Council is expected to deliberate the much-lengthier U.S. draft resolution, which not only condemns Hamas’ attack but also its hostage-taking and killing.

The diplomatic efforts and resolutions put forward reflect the international community’s concern over the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.