Background on Key Figures and Relevance
The United States, under its current administration, has played a significant role in the recent developments at the UN Security Council regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamás in Gaza. The US vetoed a resolution calling for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire along with unhindered access for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
Dorothy Shea, the US Acting Ambassador to the UN, made it clear that the United States would not support any measure that does not condemn Hamás and demand its disarmament and withdrawal from Gaza. This stance reflects the US position on the conflict, which considers Hamás as a significant obstacle to peace.
Key Points of the Vetoed Resolution
The resolution, proposed by ten countries out of the 15-member UN Security Council, sought an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamás. It also aimed to ensure unrestricted access for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
According to Shea, this resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire reflecting on-the-ground realities and embolden Hamás. The US believes that any ceasefire must involve Hamás’ disarmament and withdrawal from Gaza.
Voting Results
Fourteen out of the fifteen UN Security Council members voted in favor of the resolution, while the United States cast its veto.
Impact on the Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
Israel has consistently rejected calls for an unconditional or permanent ceasefire, citing the presence of Hamás in Gaza as a primary concern. The ongoing conflict has resulted in severe consequences for the civilian population of Gaza, with over 2 million people facing a humanitarian crisis.
- Fatalities: According to Gaza’s health authorities, 45 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks on Wednesday. Israel reported the death of one of its soldiers during the combat.
- Humanitarian Aid: Since Israel lifted an 11-week blockade on May 19, humanitarian aid has only trickled into Gaza. The United Nations and aid organizations have been struggling to deliver essential supplies due to ongoing violence and restrictions.
- Security Concerns: The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation refrained from distributing aid on Wednesday, citing security concerns following a deadly incident. They urged Israel to enhance civilian safety beyond designated safe distribution points.
Calls for Humanitarian Assistance
UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, reiterated the need to allow the UN and aid organizations to support Gaza’s population. He emphasized that they have a plan, supplies, and experience but require unhindered access to deliver aid effectively.
- Open Border Policy: Fletcher urged all parties to open border crossings, allowing large-scale vital aid from all directions without restrictions.
- Lifting Restrictions: He called for the removal of limitations on the types and quantities of aid that can be brought into Gaza, ensuring unobstructed delivery by humanitarian convoys.
Ongoing Challenges in Delivering Aid
The UN has long criticized both Israel and the chaotic situation in Gaza for obstructing aid delivery and distribution across the war-torn region. Israel accuses Hamás of diverting aid, a claim the group denies.
