The UN Security Council adopted a resolution last night in response to the situation in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire with Israel. Rather than vetoing it, the United States abstained - an appropriate but shameful coda to the State Department's feckless peace process diplomacy this past year.
By contrast, the newly-seated Senate -- to its credit -- rallied yesterday to pass a bipartisan resolution, "recognizing the right of Israel to defend itself against attacks from Gaza and reaffirming the United States' strong support for Israel in its battle with Hamas." The resolution, introduced by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, was passed by unanimous consent.
A side-by-side of the two texts is illuminating.
Resolved #1 at the UN: "The Security Council stresses the urgency of and calls for an immediate, durable and fully respected ceasefire, leading to the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza."
Resolved #1 in the Senate: "The Senate expresses vigorous support and unwavering commitment to the welfare, security, and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders, and recognizes its right to act in self-defense to protect its citizens against acts of terrorism."
The House is expected to vote on a similar measure early this afternoon.
