The US vetoed a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, citing its failure to condemn Hamas. The move isolates the US and Israel amid growing global concern over the “catastrophic” humanitarian situation. Despite 14 votes in favor, the US argued the resolution legitimized Hamas narratives and ignored Israel’s right to self-defense.

14 nations backed the UN resolution on Gaza ceasefire but US used its veto power to thwart it. The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Thursday demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and hostage release, citing insufficient condemnation of Hamas.The remaining 14 Security Council members supported the resolution, which highlighted Gaza’s ‘catastrophic’ humanitarian situation and urged Israel to remove aid delivery restrictions affecting 2.1 million Palestinians.

The vote came as Israeli tanks and jets pounded Gaza City, the target of a major new ground offensive, forcing Palestinians to flee south.The vote underscores US and Israeli isolation regarding the Gaza conflict, preceding the UN General Assembly where Gaza will be prominent. Major US allies are expected to recognise Palestinian statehood, creating division between the Trump administration and partners like the UK and France.The resolution, created by ten elected council members, emphasises Palestinian civilians’ increasing hardships.

Morgan Ortagus, a senior US policy adviser, explained the opposition, noting the resolution’s failure to condemn Hamas or acknowledge Israel’s self-defence rights. She stated that other members disregarded US concerns about ‘unacceptable’ language.Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour expressed understanding for his people’s disappointment. Algeria’s leadership in the resolution resulted in their UN ambassador, Amar Bendjama, praising the 14 supporting members despite the outcome.Pakistan’s ambassador termed the Security Council’s 10,000th meeting vote “a dark moment”.

Israel’s UN ambassador Danny Danon criticised the resolution, stating it would neither secure hostage release nor regional security.The resolution maintained previous demands, including releasing hostages held since Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack. The US had opposed similar resolutions since November, arguing against unlinked ceasefire demands.The new resolution expressed concern over a recent report indicating famine in Gaza City. Israeli forces continue their ground offensive, potentially extending the conflict.

The military’s infrastructure destruction mission lacks a definitive timeline.UN Human Rights Council experts concluded Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. The General Assembly recently endorsed a two-state solution.