UN Security Council resolution authorized military action in Libya but not Palestine?
Introduction
The UN Security Council has not authorized military intervention to protect civilians in Gaza or the West Bank for several key reasons:
Legal and Political Obstacles
Lack of consensus
Unlike the Libya intervention in 2011, there is no UN Security Council resolution authorizing military intervention to protect civilians in Gaza or the West Bank. The Security Council has been unable to reach a consensus on such action.
Veto power
The United States, a permanent member of the Security Council with veto power, has consistently blocked resolutions critical of Israel.
Since 1970, the U.S. has used its veto 45 times to support Israel, which is more than half of its total vetoes.
Geopolitical Complexities
Regional dynamics
Intervening in Gaza or the West Bank could potentially escalate into a wider regional conflict, unlike the relatively isolated situation in Libya.
Strategic alliances
Many NATO members, particularly the United States, have strong bilateral relationships with Israel, complicating potential intervention decisions.
Operational Challenges
Consent of parties
Effective UN peacekeeping operations typically require the consent of all parties involved. Both Israel and Hamas have shown resistance to foreign military presence.
Risks of deployment
Any intervening force would face significant risks, potentially leading to casualties among peacekeepers.
Alternative Approaches
Instead of military intervention, the UN has focused on
Diplomatic efforts
Calling for ceasefires and peaceful resolutions to the conflict.
Humanitarian aid
Providing assistance to civilians affected by the conflict.
Resolutions
Passing non-binding resolutions in the General Assembly calling for ceasefires and protection of civilians.
Conclusion
Global political rules is for the rich nations not the poor ones, like Palestine
While the UN has expressed concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West Bank, it has prioritized diplomatic and humanitarian approaches over military intervention.
The complex geopolitical realities, lack of consensus among Security Council members, and the United States’ use of its veto power have prevented the authorization of military intervention to protect civilians in these areas.
