US blocks UN resolution on granting Palestine full membership

The United States blocked a widely endorsed U.N. resolution that aimed to facilitate Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations, a goal long pursued by Palestinians but opposed by Israel. In the 15-member Security Council, the vote saw 12 in favor, the United States against, and two abstentions from the United Kingdom and Switzerland. Notably, U.S. allies such as France, Japan, and South Korea supported the resolution.

The significant backing for the Palestinians reflects both the increasing recognition of their statehood by many nations and the global sympathy for Palestinians grappling with a humanitarian crisis stemming from the prolonged conflict in Gaza, now entering its seventh month.

The resolution sought to recommend to the 193-member U.N. General Assembly, where vetoes do not apply, the approval of Palestine’s admission as the 194th member of the United Nations. Given that approximately 140 countries have already acknowledged Palestine, its admission would likely have received widespread approval.