China's reaction to the US on Gaza: 'It makes the situation more dangerous'

China has warned that the US veto of a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza makes the situation in the region more dangerous.

China's Permanent Representative to the UN, Zhang Jun, stated that the UNSC must take action for a ceasefire, noting that it is its legal responsibility.

Expressing China's disappointment with Washington's decision, Zhang said, "The US veto sends the wrong message and makes the situation in Gaza more dangerous."

Emphasizing that the US opposition to the resolution proposed by Algeria on the grounds that it would 'disrupt diplomatic efforts' is completely indefensible, Zhang expressed his reaction with the words, "The US veto cannot silence the strong call for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the war. The Security Council cannot set aside its responsibility to uphold justice because of a veto."

ALGERIA'S PROPOSAL

The draft resolution submitted by Algeria called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.

The resolution, which condemned all attacks against civilians, also opposed the forced displacement of the Palestinian people from their lands.

While the draft resolution called on all parties to comply with international humanitarian law, it argued that humanitarian aid must be provided to all parts of Gaza without obstruction.

The draft resolution, which demanded the release of all prisoners of war, also referred to the provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel on January 26.

While 13 of the 15 members of the Security Council voted "yes" on the resolution, the US rejected it by using its veto power as a permanent member, while the UK abstained.

THE US'S FIFTH VETO

The US had previously vetoed draft resolutions submitted to the UNSC regarding the war in Gaza on October 16, 18, and 25, 2023, and December 8, 2023.

The US was also one of the 10 countries that voted "no" on the draft resolution submitted to the UN General Assembly on December 13, 2023, which called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and received "yes" votes from 153 countries.