On Monday, the strained relationship between the United States and Israel came to the forefront as Washington opted to step back, permitting the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

The decision by the US to abstain from the vote led to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceling a planned visit to the US by two of his top advisers, according to two Israeli officials.

Previously, the US had vetoed similar resolutions advocating for a ceasefire. However, last week saw a shift in its stance when it proposed a ceasefire resolution linked to the release of hostages, CNN reported.

This resolution was blocked by vetoes from Russia and China. By abstaining from Monday’s vote, the US allowed the latest resolution to pass, as the other 14 out of 15 council members voted in favor.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield noted that while the latest resolution incorporated changes requested by the US, Washington refrained from voting in favor because it did not fully align with its position.

Written by B.C. Begley