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Palestinian Arabs

US Veto Blocks UN Ceasefire Resolution in Gaza as Israel Escalates Ground Offensive

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The United States used its veto power to block a UN Security Council resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, following a major Israeli ground offensive that has forced Palestinians to flee south. The 14 other Security Council members backed the resolution, initiated in August in response to the UN's declaration of famine in Gaza. The resolution called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as well as the release of hostages.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US has blocked the resolution for the second time, with the previous veto in June sparking anger from the 14 other Security Council members.
  • The resolution demanded an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, respected by all parties, and the release of hostages.
  • Denmark's UN Ambassador Christina Lassen called the veto a "dark moment in this chamber" and condemned the suffering of civilians in Gaza.
  • The UN-mandated international investigative commission has accused Israel of committing "genocide" in Gaza since October 2023, with the intent to "destroy" the Palestinians.
  • Over 140 world leaders will attend the UN General Assembly summit next week, which will be dominated by the future of the Palestinians and Gaza.
  • Saudi Arabia and France will co-chair meetings on the Israeli and Palestinian two-state solution, with several countries expected to formally recognize a Palestinian state.

Statistics:

  • Over 140 world leaders will attend the UN General Assembly summit next week.
  • 3 countries have stated that they are under pressure and intimidation from the US not to vote in favor of the UN resolution condemning attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
  • The US has initiated massive cuts to foreign aid since Trump returned to the White House, hammering UN agencies as humanitarian needs grow.
  • The UN has quietly celebrated its 80th anniversary, while fending off criticism of its efficacy and facing an existential threat due to powerful states committing or being complicit in serious violations of international humanitarian law.

Sources:

  • Aug. 2023: UN declares famine in Gaza
  • June 2023: US vetoed UN Security Council resolution demanding ceasefire in Gaza
  • August 2023: UN-mandated international investigative commission accuses Israel of committing "genocide" in Gaza
  • AFP, Iran withdrafted draft resolution at the UN nuclear watchdog due to reported US pressure

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