Pakistani researcher: The American veto to prevent a ceasefire in Gaza is a clear rejection of saving innocent peopl

London (ST) – The Pakistani researcher and a PhD scholar of Peace and Conflict Studies, Dr. Mariam Shah affirmed that the US could have acted as a responsible power by calling for a ceasefire, but instead it kept to its script as a state with double standards on human rights. It does not act as a superpower concerned with international peace, for it once again vetoed a resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, which seemed as a clear rejection to save thousands of innocent lives.

The British website Middle East Monitor quoted Shah as saying: “Amidst the distressing images of civilian casualties and Israeli aggression escalating in Gaza, the US once again vetoed a resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. Rather than advocating for a truce, the US again used its power to protect Israel, rejecting a move that could have saved many innocent lives.”

She indicated that Washington’s behavior will have a broader impact on the region, and will lead to prolonging the ongoing aggression against Gaza.

“Washington plays a significant role by supporting Israel, serving as its primary source of military aid with annual support of $3.8 billion plus many billions in emergency aid, and continues to protect it over the decades, particularly at the UN Security Council, where it frequently exercises its veto power to block any resolutions critical of the occupation state”, Shah added.

“It is important to note that the impact of the US veto is not confined to diplomatic circles; it has ramifications on the ground in Gaza. The Israeli military has already initiated air raids on Rafah, and a ground offensive seems imminent”, she said.

Shah stressed that there are a couple of things the international community needs to prioritise, though: The Security Council should fulfil its moral obligations and legal responsibilities; and a constant demand should be put forward for a comprehensive ceasefire, humanitarian access and the rejection of the forced displacement of the Palestinians.

Najla Khoury