NEW YORK (AP) – Despite global calls for an immediate cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war to protect civilians and deliver essential aid to the hungry population of Gaza, Russia and China vetoed a U.S.-sponsored resolution at the United Nations. The resolution, which was intended to address the escalating crisis in Gaza, was met with opposition from the two veto-wielding nations.
The Security Council’s vote on the resolution saw 11 members in favor, with Algeria abstaining, and Russia and China casting their vetoes. Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia criticized the diluted language of the resolution, referring to it as philosophical and unnecessary in a resolution about a humanitarian crisis.
U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield defended the resolution, urging the council to support an immediate cease-fire and address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. However, the resolution failed to garner enough support due to objections from Russia and China.
The contentious issue of a cease-fire has been a point of disagreement among council members. While the resolution did not explicitly call for a demand or a call to action, it underscored the imperative of an immediate and sustained cease-fire in the region.
In response to the veto, Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour announced that the elected members of the Security Council are finalizing a separate resolution calling for a humanitarian cease-fire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. This resolution is expected to be voted on in the coming days.
The escalating crisis in Gaza has put pressure on Israel to streamline the entry of aid and reach a cease-fire agreement. The United States, along with other nations, has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict and ensure the safety and well-being of civilians in the region.
As the international community grapples with the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, the need for immediate action to avert a humanitarian disaster has become increasingly urgent. All parties involved are urged to prioritize the well-being of civilians and work towards a sustainable solution to the crisis.