In a stunning turn of events, the United States abstained from voting on a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. This non-binding resolution, which was approved 14-0 with the U.S. abstaining, marks the first ceasefire resolution to pass since the war began.

Despite the abstention, the White House claims that their policy remains unchanged. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a visit by his national security officials to discuss Israel’s planned incursion into Rafah, citing a shift in U.S. policy.

The resolution, which also demands “an immediate and unconditional release of all the hostages,” fails to condemn Hamas or mention the atrocities of October 7th. This has led to criticism from various political figures, including former U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman, who argues that the U.S. vote has strengthened Hamas.

Both sides of the aisle in Washington have condemned the U.S. action, with Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) calling it “appalling” and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) describing it as a “capitulation to and victory for Hamas.”

Meanwhile, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) has hailed the resolution, calling for the U.S. to push all parties to honor the ceasefire and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, currently in Washington, warns of potential consequences if Israel does not defeat Hamas. He insists that Israel has no moral right to stop the war in Gaza until all hostages are returned home.

As the conflict continues, the U.S. abstention from the ceasefire resolution has caused significant tension between the Biden administration and the Israeli government. It remains to be seen how this will impact the ongoing war and the future relationship between the two nations.

Thanks to our friends at CBN for contributing to this article.