The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 27th March 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Stop the war

Why in News?

The United States' veto of a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza has sparked international criticism.

Explanation:

• The recent U.S. veto of the U.N. Security Council resolution, which aimed at enforcing an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, has triggered widespread global disapproval.
• This action has raised significant concerns among nations worldwide due to its implications on regional peace and stability.
• By vetoing the resolution, the United States has essentially blocked the unanimous international call for de-escalation and cessation of hostilities in the Gaza conflict.
• International reactions to this move have been predominantly critical, with many nations expressing disappointment and calling for alternative diplomatic solutions to the ongoing crisis.

Background:

• The recent events unfolded against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
• This conflict has resulted in a significant increase in both casualties and the displacement of civilians.

U.S. Resolution:

• The United States introduced its own resolution, which notably included the term "cease-fire," although it lacked an immediate implementation clause.
• The U.S. Ambassador defended the veto of the resolution, expressing concerns about potential disruptions to delicate negotiations aimed at securing the release of hostages in Gaza.

International Responses:

• Allied Criticism:
  • Traditional allies of the United States, such as France, Malta, and Slovenia, along with China and Russia, voiced criticism against the U.S. stance.
• Humanitarian Appeals:
  • Slovenia emphasized the unacceptable human suffering in Gaza, while France appealed for an end to Israeli military operations, citing humanitarian concerns.
• Global Sentiments:
  • There has been widespread global disapproval of the events unfolding in the region.
• Failure of the Resolution:
  • Algeria's representative expressed disappointment in the Security Council's inability to convey a strong message to Palestinians.
• Historical Judgment:
  • Algeria's delegate urged Security Council members to reflect on their actions, questioning how history would assess their decisions.
• Imminent Ground Incursion:
  • Concerns were raised over Israel's planned movement into the southern Gaza Strip, with the U.S. denying accusations of supporting an imminent ground incursion.
• Retaliatory Campaign:
  • The death toll in Gaza increased significantly, leading to mounting pressure on Israel, including from the U.S., to show restraint in their actions.
• Diplomatic Dynamics:
  • Russian Critique: Russia's representative accused the U.S. of trying to divert attention from its veto exercise, emphasizing the rejection of Algeria's proposal.
  • Intentions Questioned: Some diplomats speculated on whether the U.S. genuinely aimed for the resolution or intended to provoke a Russian veto.
  • Potential Unease: The introduction of a U.S. counter-resolution is perceived as likely to unsettle Israel, reflecting concerns about the changing diplomatic environment.
• U.N. Security Council:
  • The U.N. Security Council's discussions and actions are crucial in addressing international conflicts and maintaining global peace and security.

The Role and Functions of the United Nations Security Council

• The United Nations Charter established several key organs, including the Security Council.
• Key functions of the Security Council include:
  • Maintaining international peace and security.
  • Developing friendly relations among nations.
  • Cooperating to solve international problems and promote human rights.
  • Serving as a center for harmonizing nations' actions.
• Membership consists of 15 countries, each with one vote, and all members must comply with Council decisions.
• The Security Council is responsible for identifying threats to peace, recommending peaceful solutions to disputes, and authorizing actions to uphold global peace and security.
• The Security Council first convened in 1946 and is headquartered in New York City, though it has held sessions in various locations globally.
• Veto power is granted to permanent members (China, France, Russia, UK, USA) allowing them to block actions not aligning with their interests.
• Decisions require a majority of 9 out of 15 votes; any veto from a permanent member nullifies a decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the United Nations Security Council plays a crucial role in global peace and security by addressing conflicts, promoting cooperation, and authorizing actions when necessary. Veto power held by permanent members ensures that major decisions align with their national interests, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy.