UN Security Council Rejects Biden’s Gaza Ceasefire Proposal

UN ‌Security Council Veto of US Gaza ⁣Ceasefire Resolution

The United ⁢Nations Security Council, on Friday, faced a deadlock regarding the United⁤ States’ proposal for an immediate Gaza ceasefire. The resolution hit a roadblock as​ Russia and China vetoed it, citing concerns over Hamas releasing their remaining hostages as a precondition for the ceasefire.

This resolution, which Guyana refrained from supporting, aimed at establishing ‌a prompt and lasting ceasefire lasting approximately ​six weeks. The key‍ objectives were to ensure civilian protection and facilitate humanitarian aid delivery to the region.

Stance⁣ Shift‍ in US Policy

This marked a shift in the U.S. approach towards Israel during the​ ongoing conflict. Previously, the U.S. hesitated ⁣to use the term “ceasefire” and⁢ blocked resolutions that⁢ called ⁣for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

“The majority of the council favored this resolution, yet Russia and China chose to exercise their veto power,” ​voiced Linda Thomas-Greenfield, ⁢the U.S. Ambassador to the UN, expressing disappointment.

Before the vote, she warned that not endorsing the resolution would be a “historic mistake.”

Alternative Resolution Proposed

Russia’s ambassador argued against the ‌resolution,​ considering‍ it excessively politicized. An alternative resolution, presented by non-permanent members, ⁤proposed an immediate ceasefire⁤ without preconditions,‍ contrary to the⁤ U.S.⁢ resolution demanding hostage release by Hamas.

China’s ambassador also backed this alternative resolution. ​However, Thomas-Greenfield⁢ criticized the alternative‍ for lacking supportive diplomacy in the region and potentially empowering Hamas.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken remained optimistic about ongoing talks in Qatar focusing on‌ a truce and hostage releases, with ‍the U.S. resolution supporting mediation efforts by ⁤the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar for a ceasefire.

Discussions hinted‍ at a potential resolution drafted by⁣ elected council⁢ members under Mozambique’s leadership, emphasizing ⁢an‌ immediate ceasefire during Ramadan, release of hostages, and enhanced ⁢humanitarian aid to Gaza.

US Stance on Ceasefire

During the conflict, the‌ U.S. highlighted the importance of linking ceasefire support ‌to Hamas releasing ‍hostages. Israel’s offensive in‍ response to Hamas⁤ attacks resulted in significant casualties, emphasizing the urgency for a peaceful resolution.

Traditionally supportive of Israel, the⁣ U.S. ‍has recently shown flexibility, enabling⁢ the ⁢council to pass resolutions aiding​ Gaza and advocating for ⁢temporary truces.