For the sixth time, the United States has vetoed a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council that called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
U.S. Deputy Middle East Envoy Morgan Ortagus defended Washington’s position, arguing that the resolution failed to adequately condemn Hamas or affirm Israel’s right to self-defense.
The draft received overwhelming support, with all 14 other Security Council members voting in favor. The resolution described Gaza’s humanitarian conditions as “catastrophic” and urged Israel to lift all restrictions on aid delivery.
The vote came as the UN’s humanitarian office warned that the last remaining lifelines for civilians in Gaza City are collapsing amid Israel’s expanding military offensive. Tanks and troops have advanced deeper into the city, prompting thousands of residents to flee.
Prior to the vote, Ortagus said the U.S. stance “should come as no surprise,” adding:
“It fails to condemn Hamas or recognize Israel’s right to defend itself, and it wrongly legitimizes false narratives benefiting Hamas, which have sadly found currency in this council.”
The veto drew swift and emotional reactions from UN members. Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour called the move “deeply regrettable and painful,” accusing Washington of preventing the Security Council from fulfilling its responsibility “in the face of these atrocities.” Pakistan’s envoy Asim Ahmad labeled the veto “a dark moment in this chamber,” while Algeria’s Ambassador Amar Bendjama apologized to the Palestinian people, saying:
“Forgive us, because the world speaks of rights but denies them to Palestinians.”
The decision comes days ahead of the UN General Assembly, where Gaza is expected to dominate discussions, and several key U.S. allies — including the United Kingdom — are anticipated to formally recognize an independent Palestinian state.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, at least 65,141 people have been killed in Israeli attacks since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas-led assault on southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages being taken. The ministry also reports 435 deaths from malnutrition and starvation, including four within the past 24 hours.
UN humanitarian spokesperson Olga Cherevko described conditions in Gaza City as “nothing short of cataclysmic,” underscoring the urgency of international action.
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