In a high-stakes UN meeting today the United States used its veto-power to block a ceasefire resolution for the Israel-Gaza conflict showing a deep split in global opinions
The resolution backed by most Security Council members wanted an instant no-strings ceasefire but Robert Wood US deputy ambassador pointed out its flaws: the text didnt properly address hostage issues. A senior US official (who stayed unnamed) explained their position - any ceasefire must include hostages return
The ongoing military actions which started after Hamas strike last fall have changed the regions landscape completely. The numbers paint a clear picture:
- Over 40k people lost in Gaza
- About 1.2k deaths in Israel
- More than 250 taken as hostages
- Almost all Gaza people moved from homes
Benjamin Netanyahuʼs government launched its response after the Oct-7 attack which happened roughly a year ago. Before todays vote Dame Barbara Woodward UK ambassador tried to find middle-ground; her suggested changes didnt get support
The voting showed interesting behind-scenes moves - some council members seemed to push for US veto on purpose. The US representative noted that Wang Yi from China kept asking for stronger words while Sergey Lavrov appeared to guide some temporary members choices; this made the whole process look less honest than it should