US Vetoes UN Call for Immediate Ceasefire in Israel-Hamas Conflict

• 22 Feb 2024

On 20^th February, 2024, the United States vetoed against a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict at United Nation.

Key Points

• US Veto Action: The US vetoed a UN Security Council resolution pressing for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, opting for a temporary ceasefire linked to the release of hostages held by Hamas.
• Opposition to Immediate Ceasefire: US Ambassador cited concerns that an immediate ceasefire without securing the release of hostages could prolong the conflict between Hamas and Israel, thereby rejecting the proposed resolution.
• Algerian-Drafted Resolution: The vetoed resolution, drafted by Algeria, called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the unconditional release of hostages but did not link the ceasefire to the release of captives held by Hamas.
• US Proposal for Temporary Ceasefire: In response, the US presented its own draft resolution advocating for a temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, contingent upon the release of hostages and the provision of humanitarian assistance.
• Shift in US Approach: The US's proposal marks a departure from its previous reluctance to endorse the term "ceasefire" in UN actions concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict.
• Humanitarian Crisis: The conflict, which began with Hamas attacks on Israel, has led to significant casualties and humanitarian suffering.
• Global Calls for Ceasefire: While the General Assembly has previously passed resolutions calling for immediate humanitarian ceasefires, the Security Council's failure to reach consensus reflects the complexities of the situation and divergent views on how to resolve the conflict.