Russia and China vetoed US resolution on ceasefire in Gaza
Russia and China vetoed the US resolution on ceasefire in Gaza (photo: Getty Images)
On Friday, March 22, the UN Security Council did not approve the US draft resolution on a ceasefire in Gaza due to vetoes by Russia and China, according to The Guardian.
While eleven members of the Council supported the resolution, Russia, China, and Algeria voted against it, with Guyana abstaining. As permanent members of the Council, Russia's and China's votes counted as a veto. The US called this situation deadlocked.
Meanwhile, in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists that Israeli forces will continue their recent advance into the city of Rafah, which has been the last refuge for over a million displaced persons. He stated that Israel"will do it alone if necessary.
"To save the lives of the peaceful Palestinian civilians, this is not enough," said Russian representative Vasily Nebenzya, adding, "Any council member voting for the resolution will cover yourselves in disgrace."
Following the vote, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield stated that Russia and China had voted against the resolution due to their political motives and desire to support Hamas.
Israel-Hamas war and the situation in the Gaza Strip
Representatives of the Hamas group attacked Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, after which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) began a ground military operation in the Gaza Strip, which continues to this day. The country's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, outlined the main goal of the operation as the destruction of Hamas and the liberation of hostages.
Furthermore, he stated that Israel's complete victory in Gaza is close at hand and promised to destroy the militant movement, stating that Israel has no alternative but to crush Hamas.
Netanyahu also rejected a new ceasefire deal from Hamas. The Office of the Prime Minister of Israel stated that the proposed ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is based on unrealistic demands.
