NEW YORK, Sept 26 — Malaysia has made a strong appeal to limit the use of veto power in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), stressing that the unchecked use of veto has obstructed peace efforts, particularly in the case of Palestine.
Taking the floor at the UNSC Debate yesterday, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the veto should not be used to block resolutions aimed at upholding international law and protecting innocent civilians.
“Everywhere, the same question echoes: Is the UN too broken to be fixed? The answer is ‘no’, as there is indeed a way, and only one way, to fix the UN. The veto must be limited,” said Mohamad at the debate, themed “Leadership for Peace: United in Respect of the UN Charter, In Search of a Secure Future”.
Mohamad also urged the UNSC to fully support the implementation of Resolution ES-10/24, which was adopted by the General Assembly on September 18 with overwhelming backing.
He called the resolution a vital step toward securing justice for Palestine, adding that the UNSC must not allow it to be undermined by the exercise of veto power.
“We demand this council support the full implementation of the resolution,” said Mohamad, noting Malaysia’s deep concern over the killing of over 500 people in Lebanon, while world leaders gathered under the banner of the UN.
The UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/ES-10/24, demanding that Israel end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory within 12 months, as aligned with the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion.
With 124 states in favour, the vote reflects strong international support for justice and human rights.
However, 14 states opposed the resolution, while 43 abstained, according to the world body on its official website.
— Bernama
