The Security Council today failed to adopt a resolution that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza due to a veto cast by the United States, following a debate earlier in the day that was urgently called for by the UN Secretary-General. (See Press Release SC/15518.)
If adopted, the resolution — presented by the United Arab Emirates — would have also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access.
By other terms, it would have reiterated its demand that all parties comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, notably regarding the protection of civilians. Further, it would have requested the Secretary-General to report to the Council on an urgent and continuing basis on the state of implementation of the present resolution.
Despite being blocked by a permanent member, the text garnered support from 13 Council members, including three permanent members (China, France and the Russian Federation), with another permanent member (United Kingdom) abstaining.
The vote followed this morning’s briefing, which was convened based on Secretary-General António Guterres’s letter dated 6 December 2023 (document S/2023/962), invoking Article 99 of the Charter of the United Nations, which reads: “The Secretary-General may bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security.” Läs referat