After five months since United States vetoed several calls for ending war, United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday passed a resolution urging an immediate cease-fire in Gaza for the duration of Ramadan, marking a significant breakthrough.
Despite previous US vetoes on similar calls to end the conflict, the resolution garnered 14 votes in favor, with the U.S. abstaining, allowing it to pass. Applause filled the chamber following the vote.
Also read: Russia, China Knocked Out US-Led Ceasefire Resolution In Gaza, Used Veto Power At UN
The resolution, proposed by the Council’s 10 nonpermanent members, is legally binding and underwent intense negotiations until the last minute. Diplomats revealed that the U.S. requested a modification in the text, substituting “permanent cease-fire” with “lasting cease-fire.” This adjustment aimed to provide space for Israel’s defense while urging both parties to establish conditions conducive to maintaining the cessation of hostilities.
On March 22, the resolution calling for “an immediate and sustained cease-fire” in Gaza proposed by the United States on Friday in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) failed following Russia and China vetoed it.
During the voting on the resolution, eleven members voted in favor, while three nations including two permanent members with veto power – Russia and China opposed it. Additionally, Algeria also voted against the measure and Guyana abstained.
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Earlier, in previous three instances, the US had vetoed against the resolutions demanding a stop to fighting in Gaza, saying that the measures could disrupt hostage negotiations and strictly defended Israel’s rights to defend itself after the Hamas-led attack of October 7, 2023.
The US was the only country which voted against the earlier resolutions in the Security Council votes as Russia and Britain abstained from the first vote, while Britain abstained from the votes in December and February.
Also read: Russia, China Knocked Out US-Led Ceasefire Resolution In Gaza, Used Veto Power At UN
