Palestinian Authority Condemns U.S. Veto of Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

rki.news
Source: Anadolu Agency

The Palestinian presidency sharply criticized the United States on Thursday for vetoing a United Nations Security Council draft resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, accusing Washington of emboldening Israel to continue its assault on the enclave.
Presidential spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh expressed “deep regret and astonishment” at the move, noting that 14 out of 15 council members had backed the draft, which explicitly demanded a ceasefire and an end to what he described as genocide against the Palestinian people. He said the U.S. decision “encourages the Israeli occupation to persist in its crimes and to disregard international legitimacy and international law,” urging Washington to reconsider its stance “in order to preserve global norms.”
The resolution, presented by Denmark on behalf of the 10 elected members of the Council — including Algeria, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, South Korea, Slovenia, Sierra Leone, Guyana and Somalia — voiced grave concern over Israel’s expanding military campaign in Gaza and the worsening humanitarian crisis. It further rejected any attempts to alter the territory’s demographics or borders.
Despite overwhelming support, the U.S. veto prevented adoption. The decision drew condemnation from Palestinian leaders, who argued that Washington’s move effectively shields Israel from accountability.
The Israeli military has pressed ahead with its offensive since October 2023, killing more than 65,100 Palestinians and leaving much of Gaza in ruins. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with the enclave facing famine. Earlier this week, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory concluded that Israel has committed acts of genocide in Gaza.