the U.s. used its veto power at the UN Security Council to prevent a resolution calling for an urgent humanitarian Ceasefires in Gaza. Algeria’s proposal, made on behalf of the Arab States, sought to ameliorate the region’s mounting problem. However, Washington judged it “wishful and irresponsible” and chose to promote an other strategy.
Table of Contents
The Key Points
The U.S. Vetoes Algeria’s Resolution
The choice made by the US to veto Algeria’s proposed resolution was a watershed moment. While the majority of Council members backed the Algerian plan, the United States objected, claiming that it would jeopardize ongoing negotiations for the release of hostages captured in Israel. The resolution calls for prompt.
Rival Text Emerges
Simultaneously, the United States introduced its rival text. This alternate resolution condemns Hamas, a Palestinian terrorist group, while simultaneously calling for a temporary cease-fire. The tricky balance between condemning violence and ensuring humanitarian help remains central to this argument.
Continued Suffering in Gaza
Council members were deeply concerned about the suffering in Gaza, where civilians bear the brunt of the conflict. The prospect of an Israeli military invasion of Rafah remains large, heightening the need for a resolution. Algeria’s envoy vowed to continue advocating for a ceasefire, noting that the United States veto does not exonerate Israel of its commitments.
Israel’s Perspective
Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan restated the country’s position. He referred to the proposed cease-fire as a “death sentence” for both Israelis and regular Gaza residents. The situation remains complex, with no obvious fixes in sight.
Qatar’s Humanitarian Appeal
Qatar’s ambassador, Alya Ahmed Saif Al-Thani, described Gaza as the “worst humanitarian disaster the world has ever seen.” Over a million displaced people seek refuge there, with no safe haven. Qatar vowed to continue its efforts to rescue prisoners, defend people, and establish a cease-fire. The stoppage of UNRWA funding exacerbates the issue.
How does a resolution pass in the UN Security Council?
A United Nations Security Council resolution (UNSCR) expresses the UN body’s principal obligation to maintain international peace and security. Here’s how a resolution moves through the UN Security Council.
Drafting and Proposal
A resolution starts with a draft proposal by a member state, a group of states, or the Secretary-General. It handles specific peace, security, and other Council-related topics.
Voting Process
- The Council consists of 15 members—5 permanent and 10 non-permanent.
- For non-procedural matters, a draft resolution is adopted if nine or more Council members vote in favor and none of the permanent members veto it.
- Procedural matters require an affirmative vote by any nine Council members.
Permanent Members and Veto Power
- The permanent members (China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, and United States) hold veto power.
- If any of them veto a resolution, it cannot be adopted, regardless of other votes.
Non-Binding Language
- The term “resolution” is not officially used in the UN Charter.
- The Charter includes words like “decision” and “recommendation,” which imply resolutions without identifying the procedure.
- The International Court of Justice acknowledges the United Nations’ implicit authority to make decisions and recommendations.
UNSCR Count
As of January 10, 2024, the Security Council has approved 2722 resolutions.
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