Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, has sharply criticized the United States for vetoing a UN Security Council resolution, marking the third time Washington has blocked a measure calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Amir-Abdollahian labeled the move as a "diplomatic catastrophe of the century," holding the US accountable for Israel's ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has intensified since October.
In a statement, Amir-Abdollahian emphasized the detrimental impact of the US veto, attributing it to the escalation of violence and war crimes perpetrated by the Israeli regime in Gaza and the West Bank. He called for global accountability, urging the international community to hold the US administration responsible for its role in perpetuating the crisis.
The vetoed resolution, put forward by Algeria, condemned the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians and urged all parties to adhere to international law. Despite receiving support from 13 Security Council members, the resolution was blocked by the US, with Britain abstaining.
This latest veto follows similar actions by the US in October and December, further exacerbating tensions in the region. The United States' extensive military support to Israel during the conflict has drawn widespread condemnation from countries worldwide, including China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, France, and Slovenia.
Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, criticized the veto, describing it as "absolutely reckless and dangerous," and lamented the message it sends to Israel regarding accountability for its actions.
Echoing these sentiments, Nasser Kan’ani, spokesman for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, lambasted the US veto, asserting that it solidifies Washington's role as a hindrance to resolving the crisis in Gaza. Kan’ani emphasized Iran's longstanding assessment that the US is the primary driver of the conflict, impeding efforts to end the violence and suffering endured by Palestinians.
Kan’ani highlighted the detrimental effects of the US's actions on global peace and the credibility of the United Nations, underscoring the urgent need for accountability and a concerted international effort to address the root causes of the crisis in Gaza and the wider region.