US Vetoes UN Resolution Urging Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza
Washington blocks resolution backed by 14 members, citing lack of Hamas condemnation and Israel’s right to self-defense.
United States : The United States on Thursday vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, along with the release of hostages and unrestricted humanitarian aid. The draft, introduced by the Council’s 10 non-permanent members and supported by 14 of the 15 members, was blocked solely by Washington.
The resolution, backed by Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Somalia, described Gaza’s humanitarian situation as “catastrophic” and urged Israel to lift restrictions on aid delivery to the 2.1 million Palestinians trapped in the besieged enclave.
Defending the veto, US Deputy Special Envoy to the Middle East Morgan Ortagus said the resolution failed to condemn Hamas and “wrongly legitimized false narratives benefiting Hamas.” She argued the text undermined Israel’s right to defend itself and ignored the risks of empowering militants.
Palestinian and Arab representatives condemned Washington’s decision. Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour accused the US of silencing accountability and weakening the Council’s credibility. Algeria’s UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama expressed deep regret, telling Palestinians: “Forgive us, because our sincere efforts shattered against this wall of rejection.”
Despite the setback, Denmark’s Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen stressed that the overwhelming support sent a clear message: “We want to see an immediate and lasting ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and unhindered humanitarian aid.”
The veto came during the Council’s 10,000th meeting, as Gaza faces famine and heavy Israeli offensives. Israel’s envoy Danny Danon thanked Washington, insisting Israel required “no justification” for its war against Hamas.
The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched attacks on Israel that killed 1,200 people and took 250 hostages. According to Gaza health authorities, more than 65,000 Palestinians have since been killed.
The US has previously vetoed four similar resolutions, most recently in June.
