After submitting its own draft resolution at the UN recommending a temporary ceasefire, the US vetoed a resolution at the conference calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
The resolution put forth by Algeria, according to Washington, would “jeopardise” peace negotiations. However, the action has drawn criticism, with US allies expressing regret that the White House blocked the initial ceasefire motion.
The US forewarned Israel not to invade the city of Rafah in its own resolution. Although President Joe Biden has recently made remarks akin to these, the US has historically refrained from using the term “ceasefire” during UN votes on the war.
The UK abstained, while thirteen of the fifteen members of the body supported Algeria’s resolution.
Ambassador of Washington to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, stated that while talks between Israel and Hamas were ongoing, it was not appropriate to demand an immediate ceasefire.
The US-proposed draft resolution urges the lifting of obstacles preventing aid from reaching Gaza and calls for a temporary ceasefire “as soon as practicable” and subject to the release of all hostages. It is unclear, though, whether or when the Security Council will take a vote on the wording that Washington has suggested.
Following the US veto of Algeria’s ceasefire resolution, the latter’s envoy to the UN stated that the action “would have sent a strong message to Palestinians” and that “unfortunately the Security Council failed once again.” “Examine your conscience, how will history judge you,” Amar Bendjama said.
Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian delegate to the UN, described the US veto as “absolutely reckless and dangerous”.
