In a dramatic turn of events, the United Nations Security Council has failed to adopt a draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as well as the release of all hostages held by Hamas and other armed groups.
The resolution, which had overwhelming support from the international community, saw 14 members vote in favor. However, the United States exercised its veto power, effectively blocking its passage.
The draft was aimed at halting months of escalating violence in Gaza, which has led to a dire humanitarian crisis, hundreds of civilian deaths, mass displacement, and widespread destruction of infrastructure.
UN spokespersons and diplomats from supporting countries expressed deep regret over the failure to pass the resolution. “The Council had an opportunity to demonstrate unity and demand an end to the suffering. Today, that opportunity was lost,” one African diplomat told UN News.
The United States, the only dissenting vote, defended its position by stating that the resolution did not align with its diplomatic efforts on the ground. Washington has insisted on a ceasefire framework that includes specific security guarantees for Israel and conditions for the release of hostages through mediated talks.
Human rights groups and global peace advocates have condemned the veto, saying it undermines the Security Council’s role as a guardian of international peace and security.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, with UN agencies warning of worsening conditions, including food shortages, damaged hospitals, and overwhelmed aid systems.
This latest failed resolution adds to a growing list of stalled diplomatic efforts at the UN to end the ongoing conflict. Analysts fear that without a unified stance from the Security Council, violence may continue to spiral and diplomatic solutions could become even harder to achieve.
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