UN Security Council Resolution for Ceasefire in Israel’s War in Gaza Vetoed by US
Background
The United States has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Israel’s 13-month campaign in Gaza. The resolution, put forward by the 10 non-permanent members of the council, called for an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" and the release of hostages. The US was the only country to vote against the resolution, using its veto power as a permanent member of the council.
US Stance
A senior US official, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity, said that the US would only support a resolution that explicitly calls for the immediate release of hostages as part of a ceasefire. The official stated, "As we stated many times before, we just can’t support an unconditional ceasefire that does not call for the immediate release of hostages."
Impact of the Veto
The vetoed resolution was in response to Israel’s 13-month campaign in Gaza, which has killed nearly 44,000 people and displaced nearly all the enclave’s population at least once. The campaign was launched in response to an attack by Hamas-led fighters who killed 1,200 people and captured more than 250 hostages in Israel on October 7, 2023.
Britain’s Compromise Proposal
Ahead of the vote, Britain put forward new language that the US would have supported as a compromise, but it was rejected. The US official said that some of the council’s 10 elected members were more interested in bringing about a US veto than compromising on the resolution, and accused Russia and China of encouraging those members.
Manipulation of the Process
The US official alleged that China kept demanding "stronger language" and Russia appeared to be pulling strings with various elected members. This, the official said, undercut the narrative that the resolution was an organic reflection of the 10 elected members and suggested that some members regretted allowing the process to be manipulated for cynical purposes.
Conclusion
The veto of the UN Security Council resolution is a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The US has maintained its stance on the need for a ceasefire, but has also emphasized the importance of the release of hostages. The impact of the veto on the ground remains to be seen, but it is clear that the international community is divided on how to address the crisis in Gaza.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current situation in Gaza?
A: Israel’s 13-month campaign in Gaza has killed nearly 44,000 people and displaced nearly all the enclave’s population at least once.
Q: What is the US position on the conflict?
A: The US has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire and has emphasized the need for the release of hostages.
Q: What is the position of other countries on the conflict?
A: The 10 non-permanent members of the UN Security Council voted in favor of the resolution, while Russia and China voted against it.
Q: What is the impact of the veto on the conflict?
A: The impact of the veto on the ground remains to be seen, but it is clear that the international community is divided on how to address the crisis in Gaza.