The United States has vetoed a UN resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, proposing instead its draft for a temporary ceasefire. Washington argued that the original resolution from Algeria would disrupt ongoing talks to end the conflict. However, the move has drawn condemnation, with US allies expressing disappointment over the blocking of the initial ceasefire proposal.
In its alternative resolution, the US cautioned Israel against launching an invasion of the city of Rafah. This marks a departure from previous UN votes on the conflict, where the US had refrained from using the term “ceasefire,” although President Joe Biden has recently made similar statements.
Algeria’s ceasefire resolution received support from thirteen out of fifteen Security Council members, with the UK abstaining. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador to the UN, argued that it was not the right time to call for an immediate ceasefire while negotiations between Hamas and Israel were ongoing.
The US draft resolution calls for a temporary ceasefire to be implemented “as soon as practicable,” contingent upon the release of all hostages and the removal of barriers preventing aid from reaching Gaza. However, it remains uncertain when or if the Security Council will vote on Washington’s proposed resolution.
Following the US veto of Algeria’s ceasefire resolution, Algeria’s UN envoy criticized the decision, stating that it would have sent a strong message to Palestinians and lamenting the Security Council’s failure.
The Palestinian representative to the UN condemned the US veto as “reckless and dangerous.” Criticism also came from several Israeli and US allies, with France expressing regret over the resolution’s failure to pass.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to continuing the war until all of its objectives are achieved, asserting that no pressure could sway Israel’s stance.
The US has faced mounting international pressure to use its influence to curb Israel’s military operations. The Security Council resolutions are legally binding, distinguishing them from General Assembly resolutions.
Notably, this marks the first time the US has called for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza at the UN, having previously vetoed resolutions using the term. Analysts see this as a significant shift in American policy, driven by growing frustration with the Israeli government’s actions.
Concerns have been raised that a temporary ceasefire tied to negotiations on hostage releases could strengthen Hamas’s position and prolong the conflict. The US draft resolution also warns of the humanitarian consequences of a major ground offensive in Rafah, highlighting the potential for further civilian casualties and displacement.
Rafah, already overwhelmed with displaced Palestinians, faces dire conditions with limited access to essential resources. The UN has warned of a potential “slaughter” if an Israeli offensive is launched in the city.
Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz has set a deadline for Hamas to release all hostages by March 10, threatening military action if the demand is not met. The ongoing conflict, which began in October, has resulted in thousands of casualties and significant humanitarian suffering in Gaza.
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