UNITED NATIONS. The United States wielded its veto power to block a resolution advocating for Palestine’s full membership in the international body at the United Nations. This move, amidst widespread support from numerous nations, underscores the enduring complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The resolution, which aimed to pave the way for Palestine’s full United Nations membership, encountered a contentious vote within the 15-member Security Council. Despite garnering 12 votes in favor, the resolution faced opposition from the United States, with two abstentions from the United Kingdom and Switzerland. Notably, key allies of the United States, including France, Japan, and South Korea, lent their support to the resolution.
The heightened backing for Palestine’s cause reflects not only the increasing recognition of its statehood by numerous countries but also the global solidarity amid the humanitarian crisis triggered by the prolonged conflict in Gaza.
Had the resolution succeeded, it would have recommended Palestine’s admission as the 194th member of the United Nations to the General Assembly, where veto power does not apply. With approximately 140 countries already recognizing Palestine, its accession would have likely garnered significant approval from the international community.
U.S. Deputy Ambassador Robert Wood clarified that the veto was not a rejection of Palestinian statehood but rather a recognition that it can only be achieved through direct negotiations between the involved parties. Emphasizing the U.S. stance, Deputy State Department Spokesman Vedant Patel reiterated the necessity of avoiding premature actions in New York, asserting that they would not lead to Palestinian statehood.
In response to the veto, Palestinian U.N. Ambassador Riyad Mansour conveyed unwavering determination, stating, “The fact that this resolution did not pass will not break our will and it will not defeat our determination.” He affirmed the inevitability of Palestine’s statehood, portraying it as a tangible reality despite perceived distance by some.
This veto marks the second instance where Palestine’s bid for full U.N. membership has been thwarted. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has brought renewed attention to the enduring Israeli-Palestinian struggle, with President Mahmoud Abbas reiterating the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to the cause.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
