Ghana abstains from crucial UN Security Council vote to end Israel-Gaza war

The United Nations Security Council on Monday evening, failed to pass a resolution proposed by Russia to establish a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, which has been severely affected by nearly 10 days of intense conflict between Israel and Hamas militants.

The draft resolution garnered support from four countries, including China, Gabon, Mozambique, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates. On the other hand, it faced opposition from four countries, namely France, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Ghana was one of the six countries that chose to abstain from the crucial vote. The other countries abstaining included Albania, Brazil, Ecuador, Malta, and Switzerland.

Members of the Security Council found themselves divided over the question of whether to condemn the Palestinian group Hamas for its coordinated attacks on October 7, which subsequently escalated into a full-blown conflict in the Gaza Strip.

In order for the Security Council to adopt a resolution, the proposal must secure a minimum of nine affirmative votes, and none of the five permanent members must cast a veto against it.

The draft resolution aimed to call for a humanitarian ceasefire, the release of all hostages, humanitarian aid access, and the safe evacuation of civilians. However, these critical measures are now in a state of uncertainty as the draft failed to gather the necessary support and votes for adoption.

Source: Joynews