US Exercises Veto, Blocking Gaza Ceasefire

The United States has once again exercised its veto power in the United Nations Security Council, blocking a resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in the war-torn Gaza Strip. This marks the third time the U.S. has used its veto power in this context.

As millions of people in Palestine urgently require aid and numerous countries are advocating for a ceasefire, the U.S. decision to veto the resolution is seen as a forceful backing of Tel Aviv. Despite widespread calls for a ceasefire, Israeli forces continue their bombardment of Gaza and have initiated an advanced ground assault, resulting in significant devastation across the enclave. Many residents have been displaced, and the region is grappling with shortages of essential resources such as food, fuel, water, and medicine.

Read more: Pakistan Dispatches Aid Plane For Gaza To Egypt

The U.S. justification for the veto was centered around the argument that a ceasefire resolution could negatively impact negotiations for a hostage-release deal between Israel and Hamas. This stance has drawn criticism from several countries, with accusations that the U.S. veto effectively supports violence against Palestinians.

Prior to the vote, the council was reminded that supporting the draft resolution aligns with affirming the Palestinians’ right to life. Despite ongoing efforts to halt the conflict and minimize casualties, Israel continues its military operations in Gaza, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. The widespread destruction and humanitarian challenges in Gaza persist as the conflict shows no signs of resolution.