The United States has once again exercised its veto power at the United Nations Security Council, this time blocking two resolutions aimed at addressing the escalating conflict in Gaza. Over the past two weeks, the US has vetoed a resolution led by Russia calling for a humanitarian ceasefire and another by Brazil advocating for a humanitarian pause.
President Joe Biden recently took to X, stating, \"As hard as it is, we cannot give up on peace,\" signaling a commitment to ending the war in Gaza. However, the Biden administration's actions suggest a different narrative. The vetoed Brazilian resolution did not explicitly call for a ceasefire, which the US cited as a reason for rejecting Russia's initial proposal. Instead, it proposed a humanitarian pause to facilitate the delivery of aid and supplies to Gaza.
Israel has imposed a \"total siege\" on Gaza, cutting off electricity, food, water, fuel, and other essential supplies. This severe blockade has overwhelmed Gazan hospitals and created a dire humanitarian situation. Despite these conditions, the US vetoed the resolution because it did not include a mention of Israel's right to self-defense.
China has criticized the US decision, describing it as \"nothing short of unbelievable.\" The criticism highlights the perception that the US is prioritizing political alliances over genuine efforts to achieve peace, potentially at the expense of those suffering in the conflict.
Tragically, on the same evening the resolution was rejected, airstrikes hit Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City, resulting in the death of over 500 people. An Israeli official briefly claimed responsibility, stating that the strike targeted a Hamas terrorist base inside the hospital, but later retracted the statement. Israel has consistently denied responsibility for the attack.
The ongoing conflict and the international community's response underscore the complex dynamics at play, raising questions about the true priorities and motivations behind the US's stance on the Gaza crisis.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
