Palestine’s UN Membership Vetoed: VP Ma’ruf Amin Expresses Concerns

Bandung, west Java (BERITAPOLITIK.ONLINE) — In the wake of Palestine’s recent setback in its bid for full membership in the United Nations, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin voiced his concerns, lamenting the failure as a blow to many nations hoping for Palestinian representation in the UN.

Speaking after attending the National Coordination Meeting for Disaster Management in Bandung, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin emphasized the disappointment caused by the United States’ veto, despite Palestine garnering the majority of votes.

“We regret the veto by the United States, preventing Palestine from achieving full membership in the UN. This has led to disappointment among many nations, despite Palestine receiving the majority of votes,” stated the Vice President after attending the National Coordination Meeting for Disaster Management in Bandung, West Java (Jabar), on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

Addressing the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the recent conflicts between Iran and Israel, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin underscored Indonesia’s efforts to mitigate the situation.

“We have convened several cabinet meetings to de-escalate tensions in the region. We urge for restraint, particularly following Iran’s recent attack on Israel,” expressed the Vice President, advocating for a cessation of hostilities.

Furthermore, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin revealed diplomatic efforts, including communication through Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, to prevent further hostilities, both with Iran and other key players in the region.

“We have engaged in dialogue with various countries, including Iran, and sought assistance from China to mediate and prevent further escalation,” he added, highlighting Indonesia’s diplomatic initiatives.

The Vice President emphasized the adverse effects of prolonged conflict in the region, stressing the importance of ending the escalation for the benefit of all nations and global stability.

“It is imperative that the escalation in the Middle East does not continue. We call upon all parties to work towards de-escalation,” affirmed Vice President Ma’ruf Amin.

The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Thursday, thwarting Palestine’s bid for full UN membership. The resolution, proposed by Algeria, received 12 votes in favor and two abstentions, including from the UK and Switzerland.

Before the vote, Algerian envoy to the UN, Amar Bendjama, urged members to support Palestine’s quest for full membership, stating that it is time for Palestine to rightfully take its place among the community of nations.

Palestine was granted observer status in the UN General Assembly in 2012, allowing its representatives to participate in debates but not vote. Membership in the UN requires approval from the Security Council, with no veto from the permanent members.