In a diplomatic deadlock, Russia and China blocked a US-proposed UN Security Council resolution addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict in the Gaza Strip. The US draft sought to alleviate the worsening humanitarian crisis by calling for pauses in the violence to facilitate aid access. Despite 10 members voting in favor and Brazil and Mozambique abstaining, the resolution fell short due to vetoes from Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates. A subsequent Russian-drafted resolution for a humanitarian ceasefire also failed to gain sufficient support, with only Russia, China, the UAE, and Gabon voting in favor.
Worsening Crisis and Failed Resolutions
The situation in Gaza has escalated, with Israel’s vow to eradicate Hamas following a breach on October 7, resulting in over 1,400 casualties. Israel’s airstrikes and a blockade have intensified, leaving more than 6,500 dead and 1.4 million homeless, according to Palestinian authorities.
Last week, the Security Council faced previous setbacks, with a Russian draft receiving only five votes and a US veto of a Brazilian text despite 12 affirmative votes. The US initially presented a direct and assertive stance, emphasizing Israel’s right to self-defense and urging Iran to halt arms exports to militant groups.
However, the draft was later modified to remove explicit references to Iran and Israel’s self-defense rights.
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Ongoing Tensions and Unyielding Positions
Despite diplomatic efforts, the Security Council remains deadlocked, unable to garner the necessary votes for a resolution. Russia’s rejection of the US proposal and subsequent presentation of its own text further underscores the deep divisions among council members.
With Israel preparing for a potential ground offensive and continued violence in the region, the international community faces the challenge of finding a diplomatic breakthrough to address the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing conflict.