US Vetoes Resolution
The United States has vetoed a draft resolution in the Security Council that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. The resolution was put forward by the United Arab Emirates and backed by over 90 Member States. The vote saw 13 in favour, with the United Kingdom abstaining.
UN Chief’s Warning
The UN chief began this latest meeting on the crisis with a stark warning that “the conditions for the effective delivery of humanitarian aid no longer exist.” He demanded that the international community “do everything possible” to end the ordeal of the people of Gaza, adding that “the UN is totally committed to stay and deliver for the people of Gaza.”
Resolution Details
The resolution, which failed to pass, took note of the Secretary-General’s invocation of Article 99, expressed grave concern over the “catastrophic situation” in Gaza, and emphasized that both Palestinian and Israeli civilians must be protected. It demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, and the immediate and unconditional release of hostages as well as humanitarian access. However, it did not condemn the terror attacks perpetrated by Hamas on 7 October.
Why did the US veto the UN resolution on Gaza crisis
The US vetoed the resolution because it did not mention Israel’s right of self-defence, which is recognized in Article 51 of the UN Charter.
Article 51 of the UN Charter
Article 51 of the UN Charter is a provision that recognizes the right of individual or collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a member of the United Nations. It states that this right is not affected by the UN Charter, and that the measures taken by members in exercising this right must be reported to the Security Council. The Security Council is responsible for maintaining international peace and security, and can take any action it deems necessary to do so. Article 51 has been invoked by several countries in history, such as Israel, France, and the United States, to justify their military actions against other states. However, it has also been criticized by some as being vague, ambiguous, or inconsistent with other UN principles.
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