(July 25) Diplomats report that a proposal by some members of the UN Security Council to condemn Israel's demolition of 10 Palestinian apartment buildings on the outskirts of Jerusalem has been blocked by the US.
US twice rejects the UN resolution
The United States first rejected the UN proposal because of the language, but then also rejected an alternative, watered-down text. It is not clear why the US did not use its veto in the first place as it often does on any resolutions critical of Israel. The motion was believed to be broadly accepted outside of the US.
Reuters reports on the demolition: "Kuwait, Indonesia and South Africa circulated a five-paragraph draft statement, seen by Reuters, to the 15-member Security Council on Tuesday that expressed grave concern and warned that the demolition “undermines the viability of the two-state solution and the prospect for just and lasting peace.” "
Israel complains that the apartments were being built illegally
Between 2006 and 2018, Israel demolished 1,401 Palestinian homes in Area C, leaving 6,207 people homeless, half of them minors.
The UN had called for Israel to halt demolition of the apartment buildings many of which are still being constructed. The demolition will displace 17 Palestinians.
Since the Israelis administer the area it is almost impossible for Palestinians to get permits. If there are disputes the issue goes to the Israeli High Court that many argue supports Israel.
Previously published in the Digital Journal
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