The United Nations Security Council on Thursday dealt a setback to Palestinian aspirations for full UN membership. A draft resolution recommending Palestinian statehood for a General Assembly vote secured twelve affirmative votes but was ultimately vetoed by the United States. Two member states abstained.
This brevity-focused resolution simply called on the Security Council to “recommend to the General Assembly that the State of Palestine be admitted to membership in the United Nations.” However, the UN’s power structure dictates that any such resolution requires unanimous consent from the five permanent members: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The US veto effectively halted the path towards a General Assembly vote.
This development unfolds against the backdrop of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the recent escalation in Gaza. It follows a renewed push by Palestine. On April 2nd, the Palestinian Authority urged the UN Secretary-General to revisit their 2011 application for membership. The Security Council had previously considered the 2011 request but couldn’t reach consensus on a recommendation.
While not a full member state, Palestine has held Permanent Observer status at the UN since 2012. This status grants them participation in many UN proceedings but excludes voting rights.
The Security Council’s action highlights the complexities of UN membership, where veto power plays a pivotal role. It further underscores the ongoing debate regarding Palestinian statehood and its international recognition. The US veto ensures the question of Palestinian membership remains unresolved for now, leaving the path towards a two-state solution and lasting peace in the region uncertain.
