The UN Security Council will vote on a resolution calling for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza, a measure expected to fail due to a US veto, AFP reports.

It is the 15-member body’s first vote on the subject since November, when the United States — a key Israeli ally — also blocked a text calling for an end to fighting.

The new resolution, seen by AFP, “demands an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties.”

It also calls for the “immediate, dignified and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups.”

Underlining a “catastrophic humanitarian situation” in the Palestinian territory, the resolution additionally demands the lifting of all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

It will be put to vote at 4:00 pm on Wednesday (1am PKT on Thursday), but several diplomats indicated to AFP that they expected the United States to wield its veto power.

They added that the representatives from the 10 elected members of the Council, who will introduce the text, tried in vain to negotiate with the American side.