US Vetoes UN Security Council Gaza Ceasefire Resolution for Sixth Time

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

United Nations – The United States has vetoed a draft United Nations Security Council resolution that called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, unrestricted humanitarian aid, and the unconditional release of all hostages. The move marks Washington’s sixth veto since the Gaza war began nearly two years ago.

The resolution, drafted by the council’s 10 elected members, received 14 votes in favor, leaving the US isolated in its opposition.

Before the vote, Denmark’s UN Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen condemned the worsening crisis in Gaza:

“Famine has been confirmed in Gaza – not projected, not declared, confirmed. Israel’s expanded military operations in Gaza City are deepening civilian suffering. This catastrophic humanitarian failure compelled us to act today.”

A global hunger monitor confirmed last month that Gaza City and surrounding areas are experiencing famine, which is expected to spread further without urgent intervention.

Deputy US Envoy Morgan Ortagus defended the veto, insisting that Hamas bears responsibility for starting and prolonging the war:

“Israel has accepted terms to end the war, but Hamas continues to reject them. This war could end today if Hamas freed the hostages and laid down its arms.”

Washington’s stance underscores its consistent role in shielding Israel at the UN, despite occasionally signaling concern. Just last week, the US backed a Security Council statement condemning strikes on Qatar, though the text did not directly attribute blame to Israel.

Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon acknowledged frustrations with last week’s statement but praised Washington’s unwavering diplomatic protection:

“The level of cooperation with the US is so high that we were OK with that.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address the UN General Assembly next week before traveling to Washington for a White House meeting with President Trump on September 29.

The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched attacks on Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking about 251 hostages, according to Israeli figures.

Since then, more than 64,000 Palestinians—mostly civilians—have been killed, according to local health authorities, as Israel’s military campaign continues.

The Security Council will convene again on Tuesday for a high-level session on Gaza, coinciding with the annual UN General Assembly gathering in New York.

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