Israel is ready for a new humanitarian pause in the Gaza Strip

DW: Israel is open to a new humanitarian pause in the battles with the radical Islamist movement Hamas and additional supplies of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced this on Tuesday, December 19, speaking to ambassadors and diplomats of 80 countries. According to the head of state, such measures could contribute to the release of hostages captured by Hamas militants on October 7.

The head of the Israeli intelligence service Mossad, David Barnea, the director of the US Central Intelligence Agency, William Burns, and the Prime Minister of Qatar, Mohammed bin Abdel Rahman Al Thani, are holding talks in Poland with representatives of Hamas, several media reports. According to Israeli authorities, at least 109 more people captured on October 7, as well as the bodies of several hostages, remain in the power of the militants.

UN Security Council postpones vote on humanitarian resolution

Meanwhile, the UN Security Council again postponed voting on a draft resolution on the situation in the Gaza Strip. The initiative, submitted by the United Arab Emirates, includes a call for a suspension of hostilities in the region in order to facilitate the supply of humanitarian aid.

The vote was initially expected on December 18, but was repeatedly postponed. Security Council participants are discussing the text of the document. The voting is expected to take place on the afternoon of December 20th.