By Samuel Sukhnandan
In a recent session of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) addressing the Gaza crisis, Guyana chose to abstain from voting on a resolution led by the United States.
The resolution aimed to address the ongoing situation in Gaza.
During the session, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, provided a detailed explanation for the country’s decision to abstain from the vote.
She expressed that while Guyana appreciated the U.S. initiative to draft the resolution, certain concerns remained regarding its content.
Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett clarified that despite some misconceptions, the resolution did not call for an immediate ceasefire.
She highlighted the devastating toll of the conflict, citing significant casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure in Gaza.
Furthermore, the Ambassador emphasized that the resolution did not adequately address the actions of all parties involved.
While Hamas was condemned for specific attacks, there was no equivalent attribution or demand made to Israeli authorities.
Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett underscored the UNSC’s responsibility to mitigate civilian harm in conflict zones and expressed concerns about the potential implications of endorsing the resolution without ensuring comprehensive accountability for all parties.
Despite abstaining from the vote, Guyana remains committed to collaborating with other council members to pursue a resolution that addresses the legitimate needs and aspirations of all affected parties, including advancing the two-state solution for lasting peace in the region.