The United States vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution on Thursday that called for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza Conflict. The draft resolution also demanded that Israel lift all restrictions on humanitarian aid deliveries to the Palestinian territory.
The text, prepared by 10 of the 15 council members, additionally urged the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas and other armed groups. It received 14 votes in favor, but the US veto marked the sixth time Washington blocked a resolution related to the Gaza Conflict in nearly two years.
Denmark’s UN Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen highlighted the growing humanitarian crisis, saying, “Famine has been confirmed in Gaza, and Israel’s military operations continue to increase civilian suffering.” Global monitors have verified famine conditions in Gaza City and surrounding areas, warning that the situation may worsen.
The United States traditionally shields its ally Israel at the UN. While it recently supported a Security Council statement condemning strikes on Qatar, Thursday’s veto reaffirmed US diplomatic protection for Israel amid the Gaza Conflict.
US diplomat Morgan Ortagus stated, “Hamas is responsible for starting and continuing this war. Israel has accepted proposed terms to end it, but Hamas continues to reject them. The war could end today if hostages were freed and arms laid down.”
Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon said cooperation with the US remains strong despite some disagreements. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly and later meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on September 29.
The UN Security Council will hold a high-level meeting on Gaza next Tuesday during the General Assembly. The conflict began on October 7, 2023, after a Hamas attack killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. Since then, over 64,000 people, mostly civilians, have died in Gaza, according to local authorities.
The US veto underscores ongoing international divisions over the Gaza Conflict, with humanitarian and political concerns at the forefront.
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