14 in Favor, One Against: U.S. Veto Blocks Immediate Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

A United Nations Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages, and full access for humanitarian aid failed on Wednesday after a single veto from the United States. All 14 other members, including France, the United Kingdom, China, Russia, and Switzerland, voted in favor.

The resolution was introduced by Slovenia, Guyana, and Algeria, and enjoyed broad support among both permanent and non-permanent council members. It marked one of the most unified pushes to date for a cessation of hostilities in the region.

The U.S. veto was quickly met with criticism from international representatives. Acting U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Dorothy Shea defended the decision, stating that any resolution not explicitly condemning Hamas or linking a ceasefire to the release of hostages was unacceptable.

“Let us be clear. Hamas is responsible for initiating this brutal conflict. They continue to hold Israeli civilians hostage and use Palestinian civilians as human shields,” Shea said. “An immediate ceasefire without addressing these realities would empower Hamas to regroup and repeat October 7. We cannot reward terror.”

Shea added that the United States remains committed to a diplomatic solution and is actively working with Egypt and Qatar to negotiate a comprehensive agreement.

Several nations expressed disappointment with the outcome. China’s representative stated, “The United States once again used its power to lead Gaza into darkness. People are asking: where is the justice?” He accused Israel of violating international law, citing repeated strikes on civilian infrastructure.

Pakistan’s envoy called the veto “a sad day” and said it sends a dangerous message, that the lives of over two million Palestinians are negotiable. He repeated claims from Gaza health officials that over 100 Palestinians were killed in the last 24 hours.

France’s representative urged Israel to allow unrestricted humanitarian access and said the resolution was meant to serve both humanitarian and security goals. “All hostages must be released without delay or conditions. Hamas cannot be part of Gaza’s future, and the Security Council must push for a two-state solution,” he said.

United Nations spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric echoed concerns over the deteriorating humanitarian situation. “Civilians are risking their lives, and often losing them, just to obtain food. The current aid mechanism is a recipe for disaster, and that is exactly what is unfolding.”

Israel’s response was swift and resolute. Ambassador Danny Danon condemned the resolution as appeasement. “You chose surrender. This sends a message to Hamas: reject every deal and the international community will reward you. Hold civilians hostage and you will receive legitimacy. This is not diplomacy. It is surrender to terror,” Danon said.

He praised the United States for its veto. “We thank the U.S. for its moral clarity. By standing firm, it chose justice over legitimizing Hamas’ lies and blackmail.”

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump and the U.S. administration, saying, “They stood shoulder to shoulder with Israel. This veto blocks a one-sided resolution that would only strengthen Hamas and undermine ongoing negotiations for the hostages.”

As diplomatic efforts continue to falter and humanitarian needs intensify, the division among world powers underscores the complexity of finding a path forward. While ceasefire calls grow louder, the situation on the ground remains as volatile and painful as ever.