Check out GCC countries’ responses after US rejects Gaza ceasefire resolution

The US on Tuesday rejected a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip as the brutal Israel-Hamas conflict rages on. Drafted by Algeria, the text received 13 votes in favour, one abstention from Britain and a US veto.

The Arab-backed resolution demanded “an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties” and the release of all Hamas hostages. In addition, it also opposed the “forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian population”.

Exploring different GCC countries’ responses

United Arab Emirates

The UAE has expressed deep disappointment over the development, according to the UAE Mission to the UN, adding on X (previously called Twitter) that “after more than four months of carnage and no end in insight, this war must end,” reported The National.

The latest Gaza crisis unfolded on October 7 as Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing some 1,200 people and taking several others hostages. So far, the Israeli response has claimed at least 29,000 lives in the enclave, as per the Gaza health ministry.

Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Foreign Ministry has also expressed the Kingdom’s regret over Tuesday’s outcome, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The Gulf state has also been raising serious concerns over the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

The ministry stressed the need for reform within the UNSC, highlighting the necessity for the Council to fulfill its duties in upholding global peace and security and ensuring the consistent application of international law without double standards, reported Arab News.

Oman

Oman has also denounced the failure of the UN Security Council to issue the immediate ceasefire resolution in the Palestinian territory. The Foreign Ministry in a statement said Oman continues to call “for the Council not to stand in the way of peace.”

Qatar

Qatar’s role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict remains prominent. The GCC country has expressed its deep regret over the obstruction of the draft resolution. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised that Qatar will continue its efforts to reduce tensions.

The ministry affirmed that the latest aggression exposes the double standards and varying international community stances towards the systematic war crimes committed by the Israeli occupation against the brotherly Palestinian people, reported The Peninsula Qatar.

Kuwait

Kuwait has also expressed regret over the renewed use of the veto on the draft resolution. In a statement, the Foreign Ministry reiterated the country’s support for an immediate and complete ceasefire, warning of the consequences of the continued deterioration, as per KUNA.