UN Security Council adopts resolution calling for urgent ‘humanitarian pauses and corridors’ in Gaza

On August 14, 2020, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2494 demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip. The resolution calls for urgent UN-led humanitarian pauses and humanitarian corridors to allow civilians to access essential supplies, medical services, and other commercial services. The resolution also calls on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians. It urges coordination between UN agencies, top UN officials, and international parties towards a durable ceasefire. Finally, the resolution expresses the Council’s support for the efforts of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process to rekindle meaningful negotiations towards a two-state solution.