Russia Proposes UN Security Council Resolution on Israel-Hamas Conflict

BY A STAFF REPORTER: Russia on Friday presented a draft resolution to the UN Security Council on the Israel-Hamas conflict, calling for a humanitarian ceasefire and condemning violence against civilians and all acts of terrorism. The draft resolution also calls for the release of hostages, humanitarian assistance and the safe evacuation of civilians if necessary. Diplomats said the message was conveyed to the 15-member council at a closed-door meeting on the conflict on Friday.

The move comes after calls for Israel to stop attacks in northern Gaza, where more than a million civilians defied Israel's orders before following Hamas militants who killed Israeli civilians last weekend. The one-page Russian draft resolution mentions Israel and the Palestinians but does not directly mention Hamas.