The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Wednesday calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, citing concerns that it would strengthen Hamas. The resolution also demanded the release of all hostages held in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian group.
Israel’s UN ambassador criticized the resolution, stating that it betrayed their position on the ceasefire and hostage release linkage. The war, which began with a Hamas assault on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in a significant number of casualties and displaced civilians in Gaza.
Despite previous attempts by the Security Council to broker a ceasefire, the US has used its veto power multiple times, with Russia and China also exerting influence. The latest resolution failed to pass due to disagreements over language and conditions for the ceasefire.
There is hope that President Joe Biden’s administration will take a different approach to the conflict, similar to a resolution passed during Barack Obama’s final term in office. The vetoed resolution called for humanitarian assistance in Gaza and emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire under Chapter 7 of the UN charter.
The Palestinian delegation urged the Security Council to take stronger action to address the crisis in Gaza. Ambassador Riyad Mansour warned that the consequences of inaction would have long-lasting effects on the region.
