The United States has sparked a global outcry after vetoing a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution, endorsed by 14 out of 15 council members, aimed to halt the violence and address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
On Wednesday, the UNSC voted on a draft resolution put forward by its ten non-permanent members. The proposal demanded an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire between Israel and Gaza, along with the unconditional release of all hostages. Despite overwhelming support, the U.S., exercising its veto power as a permanent member, blocked the resolution.
The U.S. decision drew harsh criticism from around the globe 🌍. Palestinian authorities expressed deep frustration, accusing the U.S. of enabling continued aggression against their people.
In a statement published by the Palestinian news agency WAFA, officials said the U.S. veto \"encourages Israel to persist in its crimes against the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples while defying international law and legitimacy.\" They called for immediate international action to halt the aggression and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Farsin Shaheen, the Palestinian Authority's state minister for foreign affairs and expatriates, labeled the veto as \"unjustified\" and a challenge to the will of the international community. She emphasized that peace and stability hinge on ending the occupation and recognizing the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Hamas also weighed in, stating that the U.S. veto proves it is a \"direct partner in the aggression,\" responsible for \"killing children and women, destroying civilian life in Gaza.\" They urged the U.S. to reconsider its policies if it genuinely seeks to end wars and achieve regional stability.
China's permanent representative to the UN, Fu Cong, expressed disappointment, accusing the U.S. of crushing \"the last glimmer of hope for the people of Gaza to survive, pushing them further into darkness and despair.\"
Russia's representative, Vassily Nebenzia, called the veto \"shocking,\" lamenting that the U.S. has consistently obstructed efforts to address the catastrophic situation in Gaza.
As the Gaza crisis intensifies, the U.S. veto at the UN highlights the deep divisions within the international community over how to achieve peace in the region. The call for a ceasefire remains unanswered, leaving many to wonder what lies ahead for the people caught in the crossfire.
With mounting global pressure and the humanitarian situation worsening, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can bring lasting peace to Gaza.
Reference(s):
U.S. vetoes UNSC ceasefire resolution: Gaza crisis and peace stalemate
cgtn.com
