The United States has vetoed a proposed United Nations resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The U.S. put forward its own resolution, aiming to pressure Hamas to come to the negotiating table promptly, release hostages, and protect Palestinian civilians.
The U.N. Security Council voted on a resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, which was vetoed by the United States. The initial proposal by Algeria also called for adherence to international law and the release of hostages taken on October 7th. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas Greenfield expressed concerns that the plan would not achieve desired outcomes and could jeopardize sensitive negotiations.
The Biden administration has drafted a resolution for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza as soon as practicable, signaling a shift in Washington's language. However, this contrasts with calls for an immediate ceasefire.
The U.N. discussions precede a potential Israeli offensive into Gaza's southern city of Rafah, where over a million Palestinians seek refuge. Efforts to resolve the conflict between Israel and Hamas coincide with ongoing attacks by Iran-backed groups in Lebanon and Yemen. Houthi rebels recently damaged a cargo ship in the Red Sea with anti-ship missiles, leading to crew evacuation.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to ease tensions in the Middle East. A Hamas delegation is in Cairo for ceasefire talks. In Israel, families of hostages express growing frustration, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to swiftly negotiate with Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Public pressure mounted in Tel Aviv over the weekend, with hundreds protesting and demanding immediate action to save the hostages.
