Final Word from Thursday, June 4, 2026
Germany suffered a big diplomatic defeat yesterday when it lost its bid by a large margin for a non-permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council. One of the possible reasons for the rebuff was that Germany, in solidarity with Israel, abstained on a resolution in Oct. 2023 from 40 largely Islamic countries calling for a humanitarian truce in Gaza. German Foreign Min. Johann Wadephul rejected this as a main reason, but his friends across the border in the CR might nevertheless want to take notice. The CR not only voted against that U.N. resolution but has now also declared through Foreign Min. Petr Macinka that it won't allow any more EU sanctions against Israel even if it has to block them single-handedly. Macinka said on May 20 that the CR will be on the side of Israel and that he doesn't see any way anyone could convince it to change its position. Macinka was doing more than just supporting Israel; he was giving it carte blanche for any future actions. This is more than even Donald Trump is willing to accept. [ Czech Republic United Nations minister ]
Glossary of difficult words
rebuff - (in this context) a blunt or abrupt rejection of an offer, policy proposal, diplomatic advance or legislative bill;
to abstain - formally to decline to vote either for or against a proposal or motion;
truce - ceasefire.