NEW YORK: China has voiced deep disappointment and regret over the United States’ decision to veto a crucial UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. Zhang Jun, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, conveyed the sentiment, underscoring that the draft enjoyed widespread support, with nearly 100 co-sponsors, including China.
Zhang emphasized the prevailing international consensus that deems an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza as the paramount priority. Despite the setback of the resolution being vetoed, he assured that efforts to save lives, uphold justice, and pursue peace will persist on the global stage.
In a separate statement, Zhang expressed concern about what he perceived as self-contradictory actions, pointing to the US stance of expressing care for lives and safety while allowing the conflict to persist in Gaza. He took the opportunity to call upon Israel to heed the international community’s call and cease what he referred to as the “collective punishment” inflicted upon the people in Gaza.
The resolution, initially proposed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and backed by over 90 member states, faced a US veto, with 13 votes in favor and the UK abstaining. The conflict in Gaza, reignited by Israel on December 1 after a brief humanitarian pause, has resulted in a significant number of casualties on both sides.
Zhang reiterated China’s commitment to ongoing diplomatic mediation for the early release of captives and urged all relevant parties to intensify their efforts to bring an end to the fighting in Gaza. The ambassador stressed the importance of maintaining hope for the survival of the Palestinian people and fostering enduring peace in the tumultuous Middle East region.
