Tuesday, September 17, 2024

The decision by the United States to veto a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in the Gaza war has caused frustration among Arab governments who are working to end the conflict. One group of regional officials expressed “deep dissatisfaction” over the move.

Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas called the veto “a mark of shame that will follow the United States for many years,” criticizing American officials for being “a partner in genocide” due to their policy toward Israel.

Israel claims it is attempting to eradicate Hamas, the group that launched attacks resulting in over 1,200 deaths in Southern Israel. Israel denies targeting civilians intentionally, but Palestinians, Arab governments, and international organizations have raised significant concerns about the proportionality of its military response.

A group of foreign ministers from Arab and Muslim-majority countries met with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, expressing “deep dissatisfaction with the inability of the Security Council to carry out its responsibilities.” The United States vetoed the resolution, causing concern that aid would not reach Palestinians in Gaza. Arab governments have repeatedly called for a cease-fire in the conflict.

Biden officials say Israel must do more to limit civilian casualties and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. America’s position remains far from that of most Arab countries, which blame Israel for a disproportionate response.

International bodies have failed to halt the conflict, causing frustration among regional governments. Hassan Ezz El-Din, a member of Lebanon’s Parliament, stated “we’re living in an international law of the jungle.” Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia, has directly engaged in the conflict.

Hwaida Saad contributed reporting from Beirut.

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