The United Nations Security Council faced a significant setback on Friday as a U.S. draft resolution advocating for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza was vetoed by China and Russia. This move has intensified concerns over the ongoing conflict, with over 32,000 civilians having lost their lives and millions grappling with famine for more than 160 days.
China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Zhang Jun, criticized the U.S. draft for its ambiguity, stating that it fails to mandatorily call for an immediate ceasefire. \"The draft is unbalanced in many aspects,\" Zhang remarked, highlighting its lack of clear opposition to Israel's plans for military action in Rafah. He emphasized that without a decisive stance, the resolution inadvertently allows for the continuation of hostilities.
In his explanatory statement, Zhang underscored the necessity of an immediate, unconditional, and sustained ceasefire as the foundation for saving lives, expanding humanitarian access, and preventing further escalation of the conflict. Invoking Article 99 of the UN Charter, he lamented the council's prolonged inaction, urging for prompt and decisive measures.
Contrasting the U.S. draft, China expressed strong support for an alternative resolution developed through collective consultations among non-permanent members of the council. This draft explicitly calls for a ceasefire and seeks to address the immediate release of hostages, aligning with previous UN resolutions 2712 and 2720.
Rejecting accusations from the U.S. and the U.K. of cynicism, Zhang asserted that China's voting position is rooted in a genuine commitment to peace. \"If the U.S. is serious about a ceasefire, it wouldn't have vetoed multiple council resolutions or been evasive on critical issues,\" he stated.
Looking ahead, China pledged to collaborate with council members and the international community to facilitate a ceasefire, alleviate suffering, and promote a comprehensive and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue. This includes supporting the two-state solution as a pathway to enduring peace.
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China vetoes U.S. draft, calling for unconditional Gaza ceasefire
cgtn.com
