Israel being asked to back Security Council condemnation of Russia

Hebrew language media outlets report that the US is pressuring Israel to back a draft resolution to be presented to the Security Council condemning Russia’s attack on Ukraine.

The resolution that would condemn Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine “in the strongest terms.” It also would demand an immediate halt to Russia’s invasion and the withdrawal of all Russian troops.

A senior US official says the Biden administration knows the measure will be vetoed by Russia, but believes it is very important to put the resolution to a vote to underscore Russia’s international isolation.

Israel generally follows the lead of the US at the UN, though it may chafe at being asked to risk a diplomatic dustup over a purely symbolic gesture.

However, the council vote will be followed by a resolution voted on quickly in the 193-member UN General Assembly where there are no vetoes, and no binding action able to be taken.

The final draft resolution, obtained Thursday by The Associated Press, would reaffirm the council’s commitment “to the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.”

The council is scheduled to vote at 3 p.m. EST Friday.

AP contributed to this report.