Kabul: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday adopted a resolution which exempts humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan from sanctions and clears the path to bring basic vital support to millions of Afghans, Tolo news reported.

The resolution was designed and proposed by the US and was adopted by the members of the security council.

“The Security Council on Wednesday unanimously adopted a resolution clearing the way for aid to reach Afghans in desperate need of basic support, while preventing funds from falling into the hands of the Taliban,” the UN said.

The resolution facilitates transfer of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan without being affected by sanctions. “In passing the text, the Council carved out an exemption for humanitarian assistance and other activities that support basic human needs from sanctions imposed under resolutions 2255 (2015) and 1988 (2011), concerning individuals and entities associated with the Taliban in constituting a threat to peace, stability and security,” the UN News said.

On Monday, China, backed by Russia, opposed another resolution proposed by the US that would allow humanitarian assistance flow into Afghanistan. China said it was against a “case-by-case exemption mechanism.”

“Adoption of this resolution highlights how the UN sanctions regimes can be flexible and adjust to address urgent issues such as humanitarian crisis, while remaining a viable tool to address threats to international security. We believe the UN role in coordinating humanitarian operations in Afghanistan is more critical than ever. The United States will continue to do its part to support the Afghan people, while also holding the Taliban accountable for following through on its commitments,” said Jeffery DeLaurentis, acting representative for US mission to the UN.

“This humanitarian exception will allow organizations to implement the work we have planned and will give legal assurances to the financial institutions and commercial actors we rely on to engage with humanitarian operators,” Farhan Haq, a UN spokesman said.

Martin Griffiths, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian affairs, welcomed the resolution and said it was necessary considering the situation in Afghanistan.

“This milestone decision will enable urgently needed humanitarian action to save lives and livelihoods in Afghanistan. It is evidence of how seriously Member States take the shocking levels of need and suffering in the country,” he said.

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has also welcomed the new resolution to support the people of Afghanistan amid the humanitarian crisis.

The Islamic Emirate has also welcomed the resolution. (Tolo news)