In a closed-door emergency meeting at the United Nations, the United States urged all 15 members of the Security Council to strongly condemn the “heinous terrorist attacks committed by Hamas” in Israel. However, the council did not take immediate action. U.S. Deputy Ambassador Robert Wood stated that while many countries condemned the attacks, not all council members did so. Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia and Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun emphasized the need to stop the fighting, achieve a ceasefire, and work towards a two-state solution, though differences persisted over condemning Hamas and civilian casualties.
Wood emphasized the U.S.’s focus on condemning Hamas for their “unprovoked invasion and terrorist attacks,” demanding an end to their “violent terrorist activity against the Israeli people.” When questioned about restarting talks on a two-state solution, Wood stressed dealing with the ongoing violence perpetrated by Hamas as a priority.
The Security Council, responsible for international peace and security, has yet to issue a statement. There is a possibility of a statement being adopted in the coming days if consensus can be reached on condemning Hamas, addressing civilian deaths, and agreeing on language for ending the violence and resuming negotiations.
Malta’s UN Ambassador, Vanessa Frazier, who called for the meeting, emphasized the need for condemnation primarily against Hamas, considering Palestinian civilians as victims caught in the conflict. UN Mideast envoy Tor Wennesland briefed council members virtually, describing the situation as “precarious” and highlighting the fear experienced by people on both sides.
The international community watches closely as diplomatic efforts continue, aiming to bring an end to the violence and pave the way for meaningful negotiations, all while emphasizing the humanitarian toll this conflict is taking on civilians.
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