The UN Security Council passed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire during the remainder of the month of Ramadan, with the United States abstaining rather than vetoing for the first time in response to the barbaric Hamas atrocities. This decision, opposed by the Israeli government, marks a shift in Washington’s position towards Jerusalem. The resolution did not condition the ceasefire upon the release of hostages abducted by Hamas, which may encourage further attacks. The families of the hostages still participated in the Purim parade in Jerusalem with signs demanding their return.
The resolution did not mention previous ceasefire proposals from the United States and Israel, while Hamas’ latest proposal to release prisoners for hostages lacks condemnation of the Oct. 7 massacre. The hostages are being held in a hidden underground tunnel system beneath Gaza, using civilians as human shields. U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized that a ceasefire could have been achieved earlier if Hamas had released the hostages. By abstaining, the U.S. allowed Israel to be equated with Hamas in the Security Council, a move criticized by the Israeli Ambassador as disregarding the origins of the conflict and the terrorist nature of Hamas.
The history of Israeli disengagement from Gaza and subsequent Hamas takeover was highlighted by the Israeli Ambassador, emphasizing the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups like Hamas. A majority of Palestinians support the Oct. 7 attack, underscoring the challenges faced by Israel in defending its people. The U.S. abstention on the resolution was criticized for ignoring Iran’s support for terrorist proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah. The U.S. is urged to recognize Israel as a key ally fighting against Iranian-backed terror groups along its borders. The relationship between the U.S. and Israel is questioned in light of the abstention and the sacrifices Israel is making in combating terrorism.
Sarah N. Stern, founder of the pro-American and pro-Israel think tank EMET, emphasizes the importance of recognizing Iran’s role in supporting terror groups targeting Israel. The abstention on the resolution is seen as a failure to acknowledge the broader conflict between Iran and its proxies against Israel, a key ally of the U.S. The article calls for a reevaluation of the U.S.-Israel relationship and the need for true friendship in supporting Israel’s fight against terrorism. The views expressed suggest a need for the U.S. to stand firmly with Israel against Iranian aggression and terrorist threats in the region.
