Russia has expressed deep concern, asserting that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is hindered in carrying out its primary duty due to opposition from the United States.
In an official statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated, “It is with growing concern that we have to admit that the UN Security Council, as the main body for maintaining international peace and security, is still unable to fulfil its direct mandate. The reason for this is US opposition.”
The Ministry pointed out that the adopted UNSC resolutions, 2712 and 2720, lack the crucial element of an immediate and widespread ceasefire in Gaza, rendering them ineffective and consigned to mere paper. Consequently, the ongoing bloodshed in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone poses a risk of escalating into a regional crisis, with violence intensifying in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and the Red Sea.
The statement highlighted the potential mass resettlement threat for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank to neighbouring Egypt and Jordan.
Russia emphasised its ongoing efforts, primarily within the Security Council and the UN General Assembly, to urgently establish a sustainable ceasefire, ensure unimpeded humanitarian access, and restore the political horizon based on a two-state solution in the Palestinian-Israeli settlement.
Regarding the Hamas attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, the Ministry condemned the action and the taking of hostages but underscored that it should not be used to justify Israel’s collective punishment. Russia insisted that such actions by Israel violate international humanitarian law.
In December, the United States vetoed a UN resolution supported by almost all other Security Council members and numerous nations, demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. Over a span of three months, Israeli attacks claimed the lives of more than 23,000 Palestinians, leaving the territory in ruins.