US Vetoes UN Demand for Gaza Ceasefire, Citing Hamas Concerns

The US on Wednesday vetoed a draft resolution in the UN Security Council that called for an “immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire” between Israel and Hamas, as well as unrestricted humanitarian aid access throughout Gaza.

The resolution of Gazaz ceasefire, backed by the other 14 members of the Security Council, was vetoed solely by the US, Israel’s closest ally and largest arms supplier, defending its position by insisting that the draft failed to meet essential conditions.

“The United States has been clear: We would not support any measure that fails to condemn Hamas and does not call for Hamas to disarm and leave Gaza,” said Acting U.S. Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea ahead of the vote. She added that the resolution would “undermine U.S.-led efforts to broker a ceasefire.”

The move came amid mounting global concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in the besieged enclave.

Since lifting an 11-week blockade last month, only limited humanitarian aid has reached Gaza, where more than 2 million people face worsening conditions and a looming famine.

The Security Council vote occurred as Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza, following the breakdown of a two-month truce in March. According to Gaza health authorities, Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday resulted in 45 deaths, while Israel reported one soldier killed in combat.

Britain’s UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward expressed strong criticism of Israeli military actions and aid restrictions, labeling them “unjustifiable, disproportionate, and counterproductive.”

Gaza health officials report that more than 54,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict reignited in October 2023. They state that civilians have suffered the majority of casualties, with thousands more bodies believed to be buried beneath rubble.

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