Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield
U.S. Representative to the United Nations
New York, New York
October 25, 2023
AS DELIVERED
Thank you, Mr. President.
The United States is deeply disappointed that Russia and China vetoed this resolution. A resolution that, as I’ve said, was strong and it was balanced. That was the product of consultations with members of this Council. We did listen to all of you. We incorporated feedback. And we worked to forge consensus around a resolution that would send a clear message to the world – and most importantly, to Israelis and Palestinians – that this Council is determined to meet this moment.
Colleagues, we should not encourage Russia’s cynical and irresponsible behavior by voting for its text, which was offered up at the very last minute, as I’ve said earlier, with zero consultations and which contains a number of problematic sections.
Though today’s vote was a setback, we must not be deterred. The United States stands by our text. And we stand ready to work with all Member States to support the efforts of the Secretary-General, President Biden, and Secretary Blinken in cooperation with many countries around this table and in the region, to build a more peaceful and secure future for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
Thank you, Mr. President.
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