China and Russia veto US-proposed UN Gaza 'ceasefire' resolution

The United Nations Security Council's recent session witnessed the rejection of a resolution spearheaded by the United States, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Theresolution, proposed amidescalating tensions in the region, aimed to secure a six-week ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery and ensure the protection of civilians caught in the conflict. However, the measure faced significant opposition from two permanent members of the Security Council: Russia and China, who exercised their veto power to block its passage.

The US-led resolution backed support from 11 out of the 15 Security Council members, showinga broad consensus among the international community regarding the urgency of ending the violence in Gaza.

Despite this overwhelming support, the resolution was thwarted by the vetoes of Russia and China, leading to a deadlock in the Security Council's efforts to address the crisis.

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US ambassador slams China, Russia

In response to the veto, USAmbassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, voiced strong condemnation, accusing Russia and China of obstructing diplomatic efforts and prioritising their own interests over the humanitarian imperative.

She criticised their refusal to condemn Hamas's attacks on Israel and characterised their actions as "cynical" and "petty".

"For all the fiery rhetoric, we all know that Russia and China are not doing anything diplomatically to advance a lasting peace or to meaningfully contribute to the humanitarian response effort," she told the council after the vote.

The US wanted Security Council support for a ceasefire to require Hamas to release the hostages they held in Gaza.Palestinian Hamas terroristskilled 1,200 people and took 253 captive in their Oct. 7 attack, according to Israeli data.

However, Russia's Ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, argued that the US-backed resolution was politicised and could potentially embolden Israel to escalate military operations in Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

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In light of the veto, discussions turned to alternative proposals aimed at achieving a ceasefire and addressing the root causes of the conflict. Non-permanent members of the Security Council, under Mozambique's coordination, drafted an alternative resolution that emphasised the need for an immediate ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, the release of hostages, and increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

While the rejection of the US-backed resolution represented a setback, diplomatic efforts persisted, with France pledging to collaborate with Jordan and the United Arab Emirates to rally support for yet another alternative resolution at the United Nations.

(With inputs from agencies)