On Thursday, the United States used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block the formal recognition of a Palestinian state and prevent the Palestinians from gaining full membership in the organization. This move stopped a draft resolution that aimed to admit the “State of Palestine” to the U.N. The resolution had support from 12 council members, while Britain and Switzerland abstained from voting.
The U.S. Deputy Ambassador to the U.N., Robert Wood, explained that the U.S. is not against Palestinian statehood but believes that direct talks between the parties are essential for achieving a two-state solution.
He emphasized, “The United States strongly supports a two-state solution.”Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas reacted to the U.S. veto, calling it “unfair, unethical, and unjustified.” He expressed disappointment with the decision and said it hampers the Palestinians’ quest for statehood and international recognition.
The U.S. veto has added to tensions in the region, as Palestinians continue to seek statehood and independence through international channels. The U.S. insists that direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians are the best path to achieve peace and a two-state solution, but the stalemate between the two sides remains a challenge.