U.S. Veto Blocks Gaza Ceasefire Resolution
U.S. Veto Blocks UN Security Council Ceasefire Resolution on Gaza
The United Nations Security Council failed to adopt a draft resolution calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, following a veto by the United States. The resolution was supported by 14 out of 15 Council members.
The U.S. ambassador to the UN explained Washington’s opposition by stating that the resolution did not condemn Hamas or call for its disarmament and withdrawal from Gaza. She argued that such a resolution could enable Hamas to launch further attacks.
The ambassador reaffirmed the U.S. position supporting Israel’s right to self-defense and emphasized Washington’s ongoing efforts with Qatar and Egypt to reach a comprehensive agreement to end the conflict. She also stressed the need to pressure Hamas to accept ceasefire proposals and called for the release of all hostages, including four American citizens still held in Gaza.
The United Kingdom backed the resolution, describing the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “untenable” and criticized Israel’s decision to expand military operations and restrict humanitarian aid. Slovenia also supported the resolution, calling for an immediate end to the war and the unconditional release of hostages.
In response, Israel’s Foreign Minister thanked the United States for its support and for vetoing what he described as a one-sided resolution that undermines ongoing U.S.-led efforts to reach a hostage exchange agreement.
