In a dramatic session at the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, the United States vetoed a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid.
The draft resolution, introduced by the 10 elected members of the council, garnered overwhelming support, with 14 out of 15 members voting in favor. However, the single opposing vote from the U.S., a permanent member with veto power, was enough to block its adoption.
The proposed resolution called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups, alongside the unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza to address the escalating crisis.
Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian ambassador to the UN, expressed gratitude to the countries that backed the resolution. “We are grateful for your demonstrations and tenacity in the Security Council demanding action,” he said. Mansour announced plans to take the call for a ceasefire to the General Assembly, seeking broader international support.
The U.S. veto sparked widespread criticism among council members. Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the UN, voiced deep disappointment. “The United States has once again abused its veto power, extinguishing the glimmer of hope for the people in Gaza,” he stated. “It must face questioning from the international community.”
British ambassador Barbara Woodward emphasized the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis. “The intolerable situation in Gaza needs to end,” she said, highlighting reports of Palestinians being killed while seeking scarce aid. “This is inhumane.”
Algeria’s ambassador, Amar Bendjama, underscored the global consensus behind the resolution. “This humanitarian resolution, even in its obstruction by a veto, reflects the collective will of the entire world,” he remarked.
Pakistan’s ambassador, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, lamented the council’s failure to act. “It’s a sad day, another low in the history of this august body,” he said. “The veto sends a dangerous message that the lives of over 2 million Palestinians are dispensable.”
The U.S. has not publicly commented on its veto decision during the session. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has drawn international concern, with calls for a ceasefire growing louder as the humanitarian situation worsens.
