A UN resolution is a formal expression of the Organization’s will on specific issues, supported by the authority of international law. It includes an explanation of the problem, its objective, and its proposed solution. It may also include an appeal to Member States to take action, and/or a request to the Security Council to adopt measures for implementation.

The Charter of the United Nations stipulates that a two-thirds majority vote of the General Assembly can decide “important questions” including “recommendations with respect to the maintenance of international peace and security, elections to non-permanent membership in the Security Council and the Economic and Social Council, the admission of new Members to the Organization, the suspension or expulsion of members, questions relating to the operation of the trusteeship system, the appointment of experts, and budgetary questions.”

Resolutions are drafted by committees or working groups and then brought to the entire Assembly for approval. In practice, they usually become effective upon adoption by the General Assembly by a simple majority vote, unless otherwise specified. Resolutions are published in the Official Journal of the United Nations and are accessible online through UN Documents.

The U.S. has been clear that we will not support any resolution that fails to condemn Hamas for its brutal acts and that does not call for an end to the conflict and the disarmament of Hamas. Furthermore, this resolution draws a false equivalence between Israel and Hamas and would undermine diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground and does not embolden Hamas.