US blocks one-sided UN resolution lacking Hamas condemnation
The United States has rejected a United Nations Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, standing by Jerusalem in the ongoing conflict. The resolution, which received 14 votes in favor and one vote against, was not adopted by the council.
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Dorothy Shea expressed her disappointment in the council’s failure to acknowledge that Hamas could end the conflict by surrendering and laying down its arms. Shea also criticized the U.N. for not labeling and sanctioning Hamas as a terrorist organization. She emphasized that the Security Council should not reward Hamas’ intransigence, especially after the group rejected multiple ceasefire proposals.
Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon thanked the U.S. for voting against the resolution and standing on the side of truth, justice, and moral clarity. He denounced the resolution for failing to condemn Hamas and for equating the hostages held by the terror group with Palestinian prisoners convicted of heinous crimes.
On the other hand, U.K. Ambassador to the U.N. Barbara Woodward defended her country’s decision to support the resolution, stating that the intolerable situation in Gaza must come to an end. She called on Israel to ease restrictions on humanitarian aid and condemned the country’s actions in Gaza.
Director of the Touro Institute on Human Rights and the Holocaust Anne Bayefsky criticized the resolution for its condemnation of Israel and its attack on President Donald Trump through the U.N. She argued that the resolution was an attempt by France and the U.K. to sideline and belittle the U.S.
In response, Shea warned the Security Council against engaging in performative processes that undermine its credibility and funding. She emphasized the need for the council to hold itself to a higher standard and not be used for political agendas.
Danon also spoke out against the resolution, stating that it undermines humanitarian aid efforts and ignores the reality on the ground in Gaza. He called on the international community to stop protecting Hamas and ensure that aid reaches civilians, not terrorists.
Ultimately, the rejection of the resolution highlights the deep divisions within the Security Council regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. The U.S. and its allies continue to stand by Israel, while others push for immediate action to end the violence and suffering in Gaza.
