A UN resolution is a formal expression of the opinion or will of a United Nations body, usually one of the principal organs (Security Council, General Assembly, Economic and Social Council or Human Rights Council). Resolutions are issued as individual documents, with annexes containing additional texts.
UN resolutions are not laws, but they do have some legal effect and can impose sanctions and other measures to protect civilians and humanitarian workers from being exposed to harm in conflict situations. Resolutions are binding on the states that vote for them, and may include recommendations for peace arrangements, investigations and mediation, appointment of special envoys or establishment of missions, financial penalties and travel bans and severance of diplomatic ties.
The Security Council has passed over 150 resolutions on the issue of Israel and Palestine, the most it has considered on any subject. This timeline provides a quick snapshot of some of the most important resolutions in this long-running debate.
This draft resolution calls for the immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire of hostilities in Gaza, including the withdrawal of Israeli armed forces from all territories occupied by Israel since the 1967 Middle East war. It also seeks the safe, dignified and immediate return of Palestinian displaced persons to their homes, and for the lifting of restrictions on the entry of aid into Gaza. It was introduced by the Council’s ten elected members (E10) and received 12 votes in favour, with the United States abstaining, and three against.
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