The United States has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution that called for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip between Israel and the militant group Hamas. The resolution was supported by 14 out of the 15 Council members, including major powers such as the United Kingdom, China, Russia, and France.
Acting U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea, explained the American position by saying that the resolution failed to condemn Hamas or demand its disarmament, calling the proposal “unbalanced” and warning that it could undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts and send “the wrong message” to the group.
The U.S. decision sparked sharp criticism from other nations. Representatives from Pakistan and China described the veto as a moral failure and a serious obstacle to peace. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly, with over 100 people reportedly killed in the last 24 hours, including at least 26 displaced civilians sheltering in a school.
Aid distribution in Gaza has been suspended following security concerns and criticism over mismanagement, adding to the worsening crisis on the ground.
In response to the U.S. veto, the UN General Assembly is expected to vote on a similar resolution in the coming days. Although such resolutions are non-binding, they cannot be blocked by veto and are likely to pass with overwhelming global support.
This marks the sixth U.S. veto of a Security Council resolution critical of Israel since the outbreak of the war in Gaza on October 7, 2023. The move reflects growing diplomatic isolation for Washington as international calls for a ceasefire grow louder.
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