The United Nations Security Council met on Wednesday to consider a resolution that demanded an immediate halt to fighting in Gaza. The draft resolution made no mention of the hostages being held by Hamas or requiring their release as part of the ceasefire.
Fourteen of the Council’s fifteen members backed the resolution, but it was ultimately blocked by a United States veto.
Before the vote was held, Acting U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Dorothy Shea explained America’s stance. “The United States has been clear we would not support any measure that fails to condemn Hamas and does not call for Hamas to disarm and leave Gaza,” she said.
She continued, warning that the measure could do more harm than good. “This resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground, and embolden Hamas.”
Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, issued a firm condemnation of the proposal and expressed appreciation to Washington for intervening. “I thank the United States for demonstrating moral clarity and leadership at the UN Security Council by vetoing the one-sided resolution against Israel,” he stated.
Danon emphasized the dangerous implications of the resolution, particularly the fact that it demanded a ceasefire without tying it to the immediate release of the captives. “The resolution that was brought to a vote called for a ceasefire in Gaza without conditioning such a ceasefire on the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages — a gift to Hamas. It sends a dangerous message to Hamas terrorists: reject every proposal and the international community will reward you; hold innocent civilians hostage and the UN will grant you legitimacy,” added Danon.
He concluded with a firm assertion that Israel will not back down. “This is not diplomacy — it is surrender to terror. As long as the hostages remain in Gaza, there will be no ceasefire. Israel will continue to apply military pressure and use all necessary means until every hostage is brought home,” the Israeli Ambassador said.
{Matzav.com}