Title: UN Chief Vows to Pursue Gaza Ceasefire Despite US Veto, Security Council Criticized for Paralysis
In a show of determination, the UN Secretary General António Guterres has pledged to continue his efforts in seeking a ceasefire in Gaza. This commitment comes despite the recent US veto at the Security Council, which has strained diplomatic options for resolving the crisis.
Guterres criticized the Security Council, labeling it as “paralysed” and outdated. In a bold move, he invoked his extraordinary powers under Article 99 of the UN charter to address the dire situation that has unfolded in Gaza.
However, the credibility of the United Nations has been brought into question as the previously passed resolution for increased humanitarian aid is not being implemented. UN officials are now focusing on holding Israel accountable and ensuring that its commitments to allow more aid into Gaza are fulfilled.
Diplomats are currently left with few short-term options after the US veto. As a result, some Arab foreign ministers believe that pressure for a ceasefire may only build ahead of Ramadan in March, providing a potential opportunity for progress.
During the recent Doha Forum, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, emphasized the urgent need for negotiations to secure the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.
Meanwhile, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh has called for sanctions against Israel and criticized the International Criminal Court for its slow progress in addressing the Israeli occupation. Calls for moving beyond the existing Palestinian Authority leadership have also emerged at the forum, as they are believed to have lost credibility.
Philippe Lazzarani, the Commissioner General of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), stressed the necessity of a ceasefire to alleviate the suffering in Gaza, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
The Jordanian Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, expressed disappointment with the US veto and accused Israel of acting without accountability and defying international law. He urged the need for monitoring Israel’s compliance with UN resolutions on aid to Gaza.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, while denouncing the collective punishment of Palestinians, faced probing questions about Russia’s record in Syria and Grozny. Despite initial hesitancy, Lavrov denied any hypocrisy.
As the international community grapples with the ongoing crisis in Gaza, all eyes are on the UN’s ability to navigate through political obstacles and fulfill its humanitarian commitments. The Secretary General’s determined stance and the support from various foreign ministers offer a glimmer of hope for the people in Gaza, who have endured immense suffering.
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