https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/02/1146697
The latest Council meeting on the Middle East crisis spiralling outwards from the war in Gaza has ended, with another US veto and an abstention on the part of the UK, while Algeria's resolution gained support from 13 out of the 15 members around the iconic horseshoe table.
HIGHLIGHTS
- US uses veto power to quash Algeria’s draft resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and presents rival text that would condemn Hamas but also support a temporary ceasefire
- The US is expected to circulate its own draft later on Tuesday but news reports suggest negotiations will be far from easy, with both Russia and China voicing strong opposition to the third use of a veto by the US on ceasefire resolutions
- Council members lament continued suffering in Gaza and lambast possible Israeli military operation into Rafah
- Algeria’s ambassador says it will continue to "knock at the Council’s door" to maximize pressure on Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire which will end the bloodshed
- “This veto does not absolve Israel of its obligations,” says the ambassador for the observer State of Palestine
- A ceasefire would be “a death sentence”, for Israelis and ordinary Gazans alike, says Israel’s ambassador
- Qatar's ambassador, speaking for the Gulf Cooperation Council, says her delegation will continue its facilitating efforts to free all hostages, protect civilians and secure a ceasefire
