US Vetoes UN Call for Gaza Ceasefire

The United States has vetoed a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution that called for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution received support from the remaining 14 member states, which also demanded the release of hostages held by Hamas and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid in the region.

US Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea, stated that the resolution would "undermine diplomatic efforts" and bolster Hamas, as it does not call for the militant group to disarm. The US maintains that Hamas is a terrorist organization, a classification not shared by the UN in this context. Shea emphasized, "We would not support any measure that fails to condemn Hamas."

The veto comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the UN reporting that over two million people are at risk of starvation due to a prolonged Israeli blockade on aid shipments. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a US- and Israel-backed organization, has recently taken over aid distribution but faces criticism for its operational methods and alleged breaches of humanitarian principles.

Background and Context

Israel initiated military operations in Gaza following a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in around 1,200 deaths in Israel. Since the beginning of Israeli offensives, casualties in Gaza have surpassed 54,000, primarily affecting women and children, according to local health authorities.

The recent UNSC resolution aimed to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the conflict. UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward noted that the "intolerable situation in Gaza needs to end" and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities to facilitate humanitarian aid. In contrast, US officials argue that the resolution fails to adequately address the security concerns posed by Hamas.

Key Findings

• The US was the sole veto against the UNSC resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza.
• Over 14 member states supported the resolution, highlighting growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis.
• US officials claim that the resolution would embolden Hamas and undermine diplomatic efforts.
• More than 54,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict escalated, with ongoing concerns about starvation and humanitarian access.
• The GHF’s management of aid distribution has faced significant scrutiny from humanitarian organizations and the UN.

"The world is watching, day after day, horrifying scenes of Palestinians being shot, wounded or killed in Gaza while simply trying to eat," said UN relief chief Tom Fletcher.