UNITED NATIONS (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancels planned visit by officials to Washington in protest over U.S. abstention on Gaza cease-fire resolution.
This marks a significant diplomatic tension between the long-standing allies amid ongoing conflict in the region. The United Nations Security Council resolution, which called for an immediate cease-fire, passed with 14 votes in favor after the United States chose not to use its veto power.
Netanyahu described the U.S. decision as “a clear deviation” from Washington’s consistent policy. In a statement released by his office, he said this move “hurts Israel’s war effort against Hamas” and “sends a message to terrorist organizations worldwide.”
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken defended the abstention, saying, “We continue to believe diplomacy is the best path forward to secure the release of hostages and establish a sustainable peace in the region.”
The delegation, which was set to discuss potential military operations in Rafah, will no longer travel to Washington. This development comes as humanitarian organizations warn of catastrophic conditions for civilians in Gaza.
