US Vetos UN Ceasefire Resolution Amid Growing Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Mon Oct 20 2025 13:20:22 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The United States has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution for the sixth time, which aimed for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as the humanitarian situation deteriorates. The US argues the resolution fails to address Hamas's actions adequately.

In a significant move, the United States has vetoed a UN resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza for the sixth time, claiming the draft does not sufficiently condemn Hamas or acknowledge Israel's right to defend itself. Despite the unanimous support from other Security Council members, the US's decision highlights its ongoing stance amidst increasing concerns over the humanitarian crisis affecting civilians in Gaza. As military operations continue, the call for aid and support for Palestinians intensifies globally.

The US has for the sixth time vetoed a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council that would have demanded an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.

US deputy Middle East envoy Morgan Ortagus said the text did not go far enough in condemning Hamas or recognise Israel's right to defend itself.

All 14 other members of the Security Council voted in favour of the draft resolution - which described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as catastrophic and called on Israel to lift all aid restrictions.

It comes as the UN's humanitarian office warns that the last lifelines for civilians are collapsing in Gaza City as Israel expands its military offensive.

Speaking prior to the vote, Ortagus said Washington's opposition to the resolution should come as no surprise. It fails to condemn Hamas or recognise Israel's right to defend itself, and it wrongly legitimises the false narratives benefitting Hamas, she stated.

Palestinian Ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour expressed deep regret over the decision, stating it prevented the Security Council from effectively addressing the situation. Other ambassadors, including those from Pakistan and Algeria, echoed these sentiments, speaking to the global implications of the humanitarian crisis.

The vote comes amid ongoing military operations in Gaza, where thousands are fleeing as Israeli forces advance, raising alarm over the humanitarian toll the conflict is placing on civilians.