US Vetoes UN Ceasefire Call Amid Escalating Gaza Crisis

The United States has once again exercised its veto power at the United Nations Security Council, blocking a resolution demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. This marks the sixth time the US has rejected such a call, citing the resolution’s failure to adequately condemn Hamas and recognize Israel’s right to self-defense.

The decision comes as the UN’s humanitarian office issues dire warnings that critical lifelines for civilians in Gaza City are collapsing, coinciding with Israel’s expanding military offensive. All 14 other members of the Security Council voted in favor of the draft resolution, which described the humanitarian situation as “catastrophic” and urged Israel to lift all aid restrictions.

US deputy Middle East envoy Morgan Ortagus explained Washington’s opposition, stating the text did not go far enough in condemning Hamas or acknowledging Israel’s right to defend itself. She added that the resolution “wrongly legitimizes the false narratives benefiting Hamas.”

The veto drew swift condemnation from other UN members. Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour labeled the US decision “deeply regrettable and painful,” asserting it prevented the Security Council from fulfilling its role. Pakistan’s ambassador Asim Ahmad called it “a dark moment,” while Algeria’s ambassador Amar Bendjama offered an apology to the Palestinian people, lamenting that global efforts for rights were being denied to them.

This latest vote precedes a critical UN General Assembly gathering where Gaza is expected to be a primary focus, with key American allies, including the UK, anticipated to recognize an independent Palestinian state. Meanwhile, thousands continue to flee deadly attacks in Gaza as Israeli tanks and troops advance in a ground offensive now in its third day. Olga Cherevko of the UN’s humanitarian office described the situation in Gaza City as “nothing short of cataclysmic.”

The conflict began following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. Since then, Israeli attacks in Gaza have reportedly killed at least 65,141 people, according to the territory’s health ministry. The ministry also reports 435 deaths from malnutrition and starvation during the war, with four occurring in the last 24 hours.

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