The United Nations Security Council encountered a deadlock as Russia and China exercised their veto power, thwarting a resolution proposed by the United States for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an Israel-Hamas hostage agreement.
Despite garnering support from 11 out of 15 council members, the veto from Russia and China halted the resolution’s progression, leading to a stalemate.
In response to the impasse, an alternative resolution has been drafted, demanding a ceasefire specifically during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. This new proposal also calls for the release of hostages and an increase in humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.
The council is scheduled to reconvene on Monday to vote on this alternative resolution, offering a renewed opportunity to address the ongoing conflict.
The US-proposed resolution marks a departure from its previous reluctance to endorse ceasefire language during the Gaza conflict. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield criticized Russia and China’s veto, accusing them of obstructing progress for “cynical” and “petty” reasons.
She highlighted their failure to condemn Hamas’s attack on Israel and emphasized the need for meaningful diplomatic efforts to advance peace and humanitarian response in the region.
Russia’s ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, justified the veto, labeling the US-led resolution as overly politicized and potentially endorsing Israeli military action in Gaza. Nebenzia expressed concern over the potential devastation and displacement such actions could cause to the civilian population.
China’s ambassador, Zhang Jun, echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the lack of clarity in the US proposal regarding opposition to Israeli military operations in Gaza.
Both Russia and China voiced support for the alternative resolution, emphasizing the importance of avoiding further escalation and fostering diplomatic solutions to the conflict.
In the midst of diplomatic tensions, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to collaborate with Jordan and the United Arab Emirates to advocate for yet another alternative resolution at the UN.
This ongoing diplomatic maneuvering reflects the international community’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the Gaza crisis.