The UN Security Council could hold a vote next week, sought by Algeria, on a resolution seeking an “immediate” ceasefire in Gaza, diplomatic sources told AFP, although Washington again appeared set to block it.

Algeria launched discussions on a new draft after the International Court of Justice ruled in late January that Israel must do all it can to prevent genocidal acts in its onslaught in Gaza, which it says is targeting Hamas militants.

The latest version of the text, seen by AFP, “demands an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties.” It also “rejects forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian population,” and it “demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.”

Algeria has requested a UN Security Council vote on Tuesday, but Washington signalled it is likely to veto the measure.

“The resolution put forward in the Security Council, in contrast, would not achieve these outcomes, and indeed, may run counter to them,” US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said.

“The United States does not support action on this draft resolution,” she added. “Should it come up for a vote as drafted, it will not be adopted.” Like previous texts opposed by Israel and the United States, the new text does not condemn the unprecedented attack by Hamas.