Washington Vetoes Gaza Ceasefire Resolution at UN
In a controversial move, the United States has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate Gaza ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian aid access. While 13 of the 15 council members backed the measure, Washington stood alone in opposition.
US officials argue that the resolution undermines fragile diplomatic negotiations and fails to address key concerns, including Hamas’ disarmament and the release of hostages. The vote comes amid growing alarm over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the besieged enclave.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza
The veto comes at a time when Gaza faces what the UN calls a “catastrophic” humanitarian emergency. The resolution demanded that Israel lift all restrictions on aid and allow safe distribution by international agencies. However, Israel’s continued blockade has limited access to food, medicine, and clean water.
Critics say the aid blockade turns survival essentials into political weapons. The UN and aid organizations insist on distributing aid through neutral channels, warning that famine is now a real and growing threat for Gaza’s 2 million residents.
The Smart Way to Do Business in Turkey
US Diplomacy and Accusations of Bias
The Biden administration previously vetoed a similar resolution in November, and the latest rejection has sparked renewed accusations of US bias toward Israel. Despite calls for neutrality, American policy continues to shield Israel from scrutiny, even as violence and suffering escalate.
Recently, a US- and Israeli-backed aid initiative was halted after dozens of Palestinians were killed while seeking food. Eyewitnesses and health groups allege Israeli forces opened fire on civilians. While Israel claims Hamas manipulates aid distribution, the UN says the current system lacks impartiality and violates international norms.
Legal and Ethical Concerns Raised by UN Officials
The resolution also called for restoring vital services in Gaza under international humanitarian law. Yet, Israel’s prolonged offensive—backed by US military and diplomatic support—has destroyed hospitals, schools, and water systems. UN leaders stress that daily scenes of Palestinian civilians being shot or starved to death must end immediately.
UN Humanitarian Chief Tom Fletcher urged an urgent increase in aid and emphasized that distribution should remain under UN control to uphold neutrality and legality.
Root Causes and the Path Forward
Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, opposed the resolution, claiming it failed to address Hamas’ aggression. However, global experts argue that Israel’s occupation, blockade, and repeated violations of international law are the root causes of Gaza’s suffering.
Despite 14 resolutions on Gaza since the war began, only four have passed. The latest veto reflects a deep divide between international consensus and US-Israeli policy, leaving millions in Gaza trapped in crisis.
