China, Russia Veto Draft UNSC Resolution on Gaza Cease-Fire

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Facts

  • The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has rejected a draft resolution proposed by the US concerning an 'immediate and sustained ceasefire' in Gaza on Friday morning.1
  • While 11 of its members supported the resolution, two permanent Council members — China and Russia — used their veto power against it. Algeria also opposed the draft, and Guyana abstained.1
  • The failed resolution stated that the UNSC 'determine[d] the imperative' of the cease-fire while calling for the measure to be 'in connection to the release of all [253] remaining hostages.'2
  • Commenting on the country's veto, Chinese UN Ambassador Zhang Jun claimed that the Security Council had to 'promote an immediate, unconditional, and sustained ceasefire,' accusing the US of creating 'preconditions' within the resolution.3
  • In contrast, US UN Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield described Russia and China's actions as 'deeply cynical' and 'petty.' Washington argues that alternative wording to a cease-fire resolution may 'not support the diplomacy happening on the ground' and could threaten 'ongoing negotiations.'4
  • Previously, the US vetoed three resolutions calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza following Oct. 7, 2023. Following the vote, Palestine's ambassador to the UN stated that a further resolution drafted by 10 UNSC members is expected to be voted on by Saturday morning.5

Sources: 1UN News, 2BBC News, 3UN China, 4US Mission and 5Associated Press.

Narratives

  • Pro-establishment narrative, as provided by Washington Post. While the US' resolution was unsuccessful, the draft highlighted a key shift in American foreign policy direction. Although the language used within the text was certainly unorthodox, its passing would've irrespectively placed further pressure on Israel. The US has joined the international community in placing pressure on finding the end to the current conflict in Gaza.
  • Establishment-critical narrative, as provided by Nour News. Half a year on from the Gaza catastrophe encouraged by Washington, the US resolution has been met with international criticism and makes a mockery of the definition of 'immediate.' It's likely, despite the outward change in rhetoric, that America's resolution was nothing more than a superficial attempt to gain leverage in negotiations aimed at maximizing its hegemony through its proxy state Israel.

Predictions