Unprecedented UN Resolution: Divisions Between Israel and U.S. Over Gaza
The United Nations Security Council's recent cease-fire resolution for Gaza has deepened divisions between Israel and the U.S., marking a critical point in their relationship. The resolution, passed with the U.S. abstaining, addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Tensions rise as Israel faces pressure to comply, while the U.S. grapples with domestic political implications and international repercussions.
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CQ Press Lecture Spark MARCH 26, 2024 Connecting current events to your International Relations classroom
Divisions Deepen Between Israel and the U.S. Over Gaza On Monday, March 25th, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) passed a resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire in Gaza. There are fifteen countries which sit on the UN Security Council and the resolution passed with fourteen voting in favor of the cease-fire with the United States (U.S.) abstaining. The resolution represents the fifth time the UNSC has considered a cease-fire in Gaza since October, with the U.S. having vetoed three of the resolutions. The resolution also demands the release of Israeli hostages who were taken by Hamas on October 7th; however, the cease-fire is not dependent upon their release. What did the UNSC pass? 2
Divisions Deepen Between Israel and the U.S. Over Gaza The U.S. abstaining on the question of a cease-fire in Gaza represents the lowest point between the U.S. and Israel since the Jewish state was formed in 1948. Over the last several months the U.S. has grown increasingly concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. More than 32,000 people, most of which are civilians have died in Gaza because of Israeli military actions. There are fears the death toll will rise in the coming weeks as many Palestinians in Gaza are facing food shortages with famine looming. As a result, the U.S. is dropping aid by air and is in the process of placing a dock off Gaza s coast so supplies can come via the sea as well. What is happening in Gaza? 3
Background and Key Concepts The U.S. is one of five permanent members on the UNSC along with the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China. Permanent members on the UNSC have veto power and by the U.S. not using its veto it allowed for a UN cease-fire resolution to pass. UNSC resolutions are typically treated as having the force of international law. It remains unclear whether Israel will abide by the resolution. Meanwhile, the UN is unable to prevent Israel from continuing the fighting in Gaza if it decides to ignore the UN resolution. Increasingly Israel is isolated on the world stage for its war against Hamas in Gaza. The U.S. remains Israel s most important ally, with Israel receiving military and diplomatic aid from the U.S. since it was attacked by Hamas nearly six months ago. Israel claims that by implementing a cease-fire in Gaza it will impede its ability to prevent another attack by Hamas. In response to the U.S. abstaining on the UNSC cease-fire resolution in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahucancelled a planned trip to Washington by two of his ministers. Meetings were scheduled with American policymakers so Israel could discuss its plan of invading the southern Gaza city of Rafah. There is mounting pressure on U.S. President Joe Biden to stop the fighting in Gaza. Within President Biden s own party there are some Democrats who may not support the president as he faces reelection later this year for his support of Israel. Meanwhile Prime Minister Netanyahu is trying to preserve a fragile governing coalition that includes two-far right ministers who insist that the war between Israel and Hamas continue until the latter is destroyed. 4
Assessment Writing: What is the significance of the UNSC cease-fire resolution in Gaza? Debate: What is the best way to stop the fighting in Gaza? Poll: Should the U.S. have abstained on the UNSC cease-fire resolution in Gaza? Short Answer: What are the ramifications if Israel ignores the UNSC cease-fire resolution in Gaza? 5
