BRUSSELS – France will work with Jordan and the United Arab Emirates to convince Russia and China to back a resolution at the United Nations for a ceasefire in Gaza, President Emmanuel Macron said on March 22.

This came after Russia and China vetoed a measure proposed by the United States.

“Following the Russian and Chinese veto a few minutes ago, we are going to resume work on the basis of the French draft resolution in the Security Council and work with our American, European and Arab partners to reach an agreement,” Mr Macron said at the end of a European Union leaders’ summit in Brussels.

France’s foreign ministry said on March 21 it started drafting a resolution with diplomats, saying they would put a draft forward if the US resolution did not pass.

The UN Security Council on March 22 failed to pass a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as part of a hostage deal, the first time the US has backed such language.

The resolution called for an “immediate and sustained ceasefire” lasting roughly six weeks that would protect civilians and allow for the delivery of humanitarian assistance.

Mr Macron said the change in tone from Washington meant that he is hopeful a new resolution with Arab states could succeed if they are able to convince Russia and China not to oppose it.

“What is important to note is that the US has changed its position and has indicated its desire to now very clearly defend a ceasefire, which is a good thing for us and for the progress of our draft,” he said. REUTERS