The United States has vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Despite receiving 14 votes in favor, the resolution failed to pass due to the U.S.’s negative vote, a veto power reserved for permanent members.
Proposed by the 10 elected members of the Security Council (E10), the resolution also demanded the release of all hostages and guaranteed access to essential services for Gaza’s civilian population.
The resolution would have rejected efforts to “starve Palestinians” amid growing concerns about famine in northern Gaza caused by an ongoing Israeli siege. It also called for unimpeded humanitarian aid delivery throughout the Gaza Strip.
Additionally, the draft emphasized the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2735 (2024), which includes provisions for hostages’ release, prisoner exchanges, and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes. The resolution further called for a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The text underlined the critical role of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in providing humanitarian assistance. It urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law, protect humanitarian facilities, and allow UNRWA to fulfill its mandate in line with principles of neutrality, independence, and impartiality.
While welcoming UNRWA’s commitment to reform, the resolution referenced recommendations from an independent review led by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna.
The U.S. veto underscores the challenges in reaching consensus within the Security Council, particularly on issues involving the Gaza conflict, where competing geopolitical interests continue to shape decisions.
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