US Vetoes UN Membership for Palestine: Twelve Countries Favor Admission, Abbas Vows Determination
The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that would have granted Palestine full membership in the United Nations.
The draft resolution received 12 votes in favor, two abstentions, and one against.
The bid came amidst growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has been under Israeli military offensive for over six months following a deadly attack by Hamas militants in October.
The US veto was anticipated due to its support for Israel.
Twelve UN member countries voted in favor of a draft resolution granting full membership to Palestine.
The US vetoed the resolution, leading to condemnation from Palestinian leaders and their supporters.
Mahmud Abbas's office called the US action an "aggression," and Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour expressed determination to continue the quest for statehood, despite the setback.
The session adjourned with emotional pleas for justice and peace in Palestine.
The United Nations draft resolution proposed upgrading the Palestine's status from "non-member observer state" to a "full member state." Despite the US veto, the resolution received strong support from other member states.
Algeria's Ambassador Amar Bendjama stated that the "overwhelming" support sends a clear message that Palestine belongs as a full member and their determination to become one will only grow stronger.