United Nations, Sept 18 (Al Jazeera): The United States has once again vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution demanding an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, marking the sixth US veto since the war began nearly two years ago.
The draft resolution, supported by 14 out of 15 Security Council members, called for a permanent ceasefire, the release of captives held by Hamas, and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Washington blocked the resolution, arguing that it failed to condemn Hamas, did not affirm Israel’s right to self-defense, and relied on what US officials described as flawed UN famine assessments.
The veto has triggered sharp criticism worldwide. Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour described it as “deeply regrettable,” accusing the US of preventing the UN from fulfilling its duty to protect civilians. Algeria’s UN envoy, Amar Bendjama, made an emotional appeal, saying: “Forgive us, Palestinian brothers and sisters.”
Israel, however, welcomed the US move. Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan insisted that Israel “requires no justification to act” and thanked Washington for standing firm.
The Gaza war has already claimed the lives of over 65,000 Palestinians, according to health officials, while UN experts accuse Israel of committing genocide. Reports of famine and severe humanitarian collapse continue to mount, with civilians resorting to boiling leaves for food.
The latest US veto highlights the deep divide at the UN Security Council, raising urgent questions about the Council’s ability to act on one of the world’s gravest humanitarian crises.
