Human Rights & Public Liberties

Human Rights & Public Liberties

Newsletter
Published on: 13 Jan, 2021

U.S. Blocks Ceasefire Resolution Amid Gaza Crisis

Published on: 21 November, 2024
Archive/Al Jazeera.

Archive/Al Jazeera.

As the humanitarian toll continues to rise, the inability of the UN Security Council to take decisive action only adds to the frustration and uncertainty faced by those caught in the conflict.

With no clear pathway toward peace, the people of Gaza continue to endure the devastating consequences of a war that shows no signs of abating.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza took center stage once again at the United Nations on Wednesday, as the UN Security Council rejected yet another resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire.

The draft proposal, which had been put forward by 10 non-permanent members of the Council, sought to establish a permanent truce between Israeli forces and Hamas, as well as to secure the release of all Israeli captives held by Hamas.

Despite widespread support for the measure, the resolution was ultimately blocked by the United States, which exercised its veto power for the fourth time since the onset of the current conflict.

The proposal had gained traction among a significant number of member states, reflecting the growing international concern over the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.

With civilian casualties mounting and access to essential services and aid severely restricted, calls for an immediate halt to the violence have intensified. However, the U.S. has consistently argued against a ceasefire, emphasizing Israel’s right to defend itself from Hamas, and expressing concern that a truce could allow the militant group to regroup.

The failure to pass the resolution underscores the deep divisions within the Security Council over how to address the crisis. While some countries advocate for a firm, immediate cessation of hostilities to allow for humanitarian aid and the protection of civilians, others remain focused on security concerns, particularly Israel’s need to neutralize Hamas.

These contrasting priorities have led to a deadlock at the Security Council, making it difficult to forge a unified approach to ending the violence and alleviating the suffering of millions of people in Gaza.

Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that the situation on the ground is becoming increasingly dire. Hospitals are overwhelmed, families are displaced, and access to life-saving medical supplies and food is severely limited.

Amid these challenges, the international community remains at an impasse, with little sign of an imminent resolution to the violence or the political stalemate within the UN.

As the humanitarian toll continues to rise, the inability of the UN Security Council to take decisive action only adds to the frustration and uncertainty faced by those caught in the conflict.

With no clear pathway toward peace, the people of Gaza continue to endure the devastating consequences of a war that shows no signs of abating.

UN/Agencies.