The UN Security Council (UNSC) failed to pass a resolution on the Israel-Palestine conflict on Wednesday, after the US vetoed it. China expressed its deep disappointment at the failure.
UN Resolution on Gaza
According to the UN, the resolution, which was drafted by Brazil, called for “humanitarian pauses” to help “deliver lifesaving aid to millions in Gaza.”
Prior to the vote, Russia also proposed two amendments:
- An immediate, durable and full ceasefire, and
- The cessation of attacks against civilians
However, the UNSC rejected the amendments.
Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzya told the Council that “the time for diplomatic metaphors is long gone.” He added that anyone who did not extend support to Russia’s draft resolution “bears responsibility for what happens.”
He also argued that the current draft “has no clear call for a ceasefire” and “will not help to stop the bloodshed.”
“If these are not included in the current draft, it would not help to address the human situation in Gaza and polarize positions of the international community,” Nebenzya asserted.
US vetoes Security Council resolution that would have called for “humanitarian pauses” to deliver lifesaving aid to millions in Gaza
— UN News (@UN_News_Centre) October 18, 2023
Favor: 12 (Albania, Brazil, China, Ecuador, France, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Switzerland,UAE)
Against: 1 (US)
Abstain: 2 Russia, UK pic.twitter.com/y4tiAbRMUQ
The US’ Position
US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield explained the reason behind Washington’s veto, saying that the draft failed to make any mention of Israel’s right of self-defence.
“Israel has the inherent sight of self-defence as reflected in Article 51 of the UN Charter,” she stated, noting that the right was reaffirmed in previous resolutions on terrorist attacks passed by the Council. “This resolution should have done the same,” she argued.
Garfield said that despite the US’ inability to support the resolution, it will continue to work closely with all members to resolve the crisis, “just as we will continue to reiterate the need to protect civilians, including members of the media, humanitarian workers, and UN officials.”
The diplomat further announced that the US is also engaging in on-the-ground diplomacy, with the visit of President Joe Biden, and other senior officials.
“Yes, resolutions are important, and yes, this Council must speak out. But the actions we take, must be informed by the facts on the ground and support direct diplomacy that can save lives,” she said.
Chinese Reaction
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday that China is “deeply disappointed” with the US’ obstruction of the draft resolution.
“We have always believed that when dealing with international regional hotspot issues, major countries should adhere to objectivity and impartiality, maintain calm and restraint, and take the lead in abiding by international law. We hope that the US can play a constructive role and promote the prompt return of the issue to the track of political settlement.”