The United States has again used its veto power at the United Nations Security Council to block a resolution demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, marking the sixth such veto since the conflict began nearly two years ago. The resolution, drafted by the council’s 10 elected members and supported by all 14 other nations, sought to halt Israel’s military operations and secure the unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas. U.S. diplomat Morgan Ortagus criticized the resolution for failing to condemn Hamas or recognize Israel’s right to self-defense, arguing it legitimized "false narratives" benefiting the group. The veto comes amid a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where famine has been confirmed and over 64,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed.
The Humanitarian Catastrophe
Gaza’s humanitarian situation has reached catastrophic levels, with a UN-backed declaration of famine in Gaza City and widespread starvation affecting millions. Denmark’s Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen emphasized that "a generation risks being lost not only to war, but to hunger and despair," citing Israel’s expanded military operations in Gaza City as deepening civilian suffering. Aid agencies report that nearly a third of Gaza’s population goes multiple days without food, and over 800 people have been killed while attempting to access aid distributions. Israel has blamed Hamas for siphoning aid and the UN for logistical failures, but critics argue Israel’s restrictions on aid access are deliberate.
UN Genocide Findings
A UN Commission of Inquiry concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, identifying four of the five genocidal acts defined under international law: killing Palestinians, causing serious bodily and mental harm, deliberately inflicting conditions to destroy the group, and imposing measures to prevent births. The report cited statements by Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as evidence of genocidal intent. Israel rejected the report as "distorted and false," but the findings have intensified global pressure for accountability.
Diplomatic Isolation
The U.S. veto has further isolated Washington and Tel Aviv on the world stage, with key allies like the UK and France supporting the ceasefire resolution. The UN General Assembly previously voted overwhelmingly to endorse a two-state solution, highlighting growing international consensus against Israel’s actions. Algeria’s Ambassador Amar Bendjama lamented the Security Council’s inability to act, stating that its paralysis "fuels chaos". Meanwhile, Israel’s Ambassador Danny Danon defended the military campaign, asserting that "resolutions against Israel will not release the hostages" and vowing to continue fighting Hamas despite diplomatic pressure.