As Palestinians Head Back to the UN, Cause for Concern in Israel

"Unlike last time Israel faced a hostile resolution at the United Nations Security Council, in December 2014, this time there is virtually no chance that it will fail to garner the required majority.

That means that the key to fending off the latest Palestinian attempt to get Israel condemned at the UN's most important body lies with US President Barack Obama. He will be in the awkward position of having to either veto a resolution despite agreeing with its content, or to abstain, thus further alienating America's staunchest ally in the Middle East and allowing political opponents at home to portray his party as anti-Israel...

For a resolution to pass it needs nine votes from the council's 15 members. If that were to occur, one of its five permanent members - the US, the UK, China, France and Russia - could veto the resolution.

Since 2014, the makeup of the Security Council has changed in the Palestinians' favor, and there is virtually no chance for Israel to stave off a resolution critical of settlements.

China, Russia, Egypt, Malaysia, Senegal, Venezuela and France are certain to support the draft... [I]t is also safe to assume the remaining members of the council - Britain, Angola, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, Ukraine and Uruguay - would support the Palestinian proposal. The US thus remains the only wildcard in the upcoming diplomatic showdown at Turtle Bay..."