The United States recently stopped a United Nations Security Council vote. This happened on a recent Thursday. The vote called for an immediate, permanent, and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. It also asked for Israel to remove all limits on humanitarian aid entering the area. This marks the sixth time the U.S. has used its veto power in almost two years of conflict.
Ten countries that are temporary members of the Security Council proposed the resolution. Fourteen nations voted to support it. But the United States, a close friend to Israel, cast the only “no” vote. This single vote was enough to defeat the measure. The proposed resolution also demanded that Hamas and other armed groups immediately release all hostages they hold.
Life in Gaza is becoming impossible for many. Christina Markus Lassen, Denmark’s Ambassador to the UN, spoke clearly about the situation. She told the council that “starvation in Gaza is confirmed, not a prediction.” She noted that Israel’s military actions in Gaza City have made things much worse for civilians. A global group that tracks hunger had already stated that Gaza City and its surrounding areas face famine. This crisis is expected to spread further.
The United States often uses its diplomatic power to support Israel at the UN. Though the U.S. did back a Security Council statement condemning an attack in Qatar recently, which was a rare move, this latest veto shows a return to form. It reaffirms the U.S. commitment to protecting Israel on the diplomatic stage.
Morgan Ortagus, a U.S. diplomat, explained the American stance. She said Hamas began the war and is keeping it going. Ortagus claimed Israel has accepted offers for a ceasefire. However, she said Hamas has rejected them. She stated that the war could end instantly if Hamas were to release its hostages and give up its weapons.
Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, acknowledged that Israel was not pleased with the Qatar statement. Despite this, he stressed that cooperation with the U.S. remains “strong.” He also shared that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would travel to Washington. He is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump on September 29, after the UN General Assembly.
The current conflict in Gaza started on October 7, 2023. This was when Hamas attacked Israel. Israeli reports state that about 1,200 civilians died in these attacks. They also say 251 people were taken hostage. On the other side, health officials in Gaza report a much higher death toll. They state that over 64,000 people have died in Gaza, mostly civilians.
Source: Reuters