RAMALLAH, November 20, 2024 (WAFA) – The Palestinian Presidency has condemned the United States' use of its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a resolution calling for a ceasefire and an end to Israeli aggression in the Gaza Strip.

In a statement released on Wednesday evening, the Palestinian Presidency stated that the U.S. decision to exercise its veto for the fourth time emboldens Israel to continue its crimes against innocent civilians in Palestine and Lebanon.

The statement also criticized the U.S. for disregarding international law and UN resolutions, including the ruling by the International Court of Justice, which called for an end to the Israeli occupation, withdrawal from Gaza, and a cessation of hostilities.

The Presidency underscored that the Palestinian leadership had consistently called for a UN Security Council resolution under Chapter VII to demand an immediate ceasefire, halt Israel’s genocidal acts against the Palestinian people, and support the ongoing work of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). 

The Palestinian Presidency urged the international community, particularly the members of the UN Security Council, to fulfill their responsibilities by taking immediate action to stop the ongoing Israeli attacks, the humanitarian catastrophe, and the famine affecting Gaza’s residents.

The statement also expressed gratitude to the ten elected members of the Security Council who attempted to pass the resolution and thanked the permanent members who voted in favor of it.

The Presidency called on the Security Council to act decisively in protecting the Palestinian people and preserving international peace and security, urging the full application of international law to Israel, which, it said, is obstructed by the U.S. administration.

Finally, the Palestinian leadership reiterated its call for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

M.N