The United States vetoed a proposal granting Palestine full membership in the United Nations on Thursday, drawing condemnation from the Palestinian Authority and UN member states.

Despite 12 of the 15 UN Security Council members voting in favor, the US veto power nixed the resolution. France initially abstained, but later clarified its support for Palestinian membership.

The Palestinian Authority slammed the US veto as "unfair, immoral, and unjustified," calling it an "aggression" that pushes the region toward instability. They argue the veto undermines international law and Palestinian rights.

Leaked cables suggest the US lobbied other nations to oppose the resolution, fearing embarrassment. This has been criticized as hypocrisy, considering public US statements advocating for a two-state solution.

Algeria, who introduced the resolution, stated the failure to grant membership is a "permanent stain" on the UN. Russia called the US veto a "hopeless attempt" to stop an inevitable Palestinian state. China expressed disappointment, labeling the US action "most disappointing." (ILKHA)