US vetoes UN resolution to condemn violence in Israel-Hamas war

The United States has vetoed a UN resolution that would have condemned violence against all civilians in the Israel-Hamas war including “the heinous terrorists attacks by Hamas” against Israel, and would have pushed for humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.

Twelve of the 15 Security Council members on Wednesday voted in favour of the resolution sponsored by Brazil. The United States voted against, while Russia and the United Kingdom abstained.

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said after the vote that President Joe Biden is in the region engaging in diplomacy to secure the release of hostages, prevent the conflict from spreading, and stress the need to protect civilians.

“We need to let that diplomacy play out,” she said.

Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia accused the United States of “hypocrisy” and “double standards,” saying the Americans didn't want a solution in the Security Council.

Brazil, France, China, the United Arab Emirates and many other council members expressed regret and disappointment at the US veto. (AP)