US Vetoes UN Ceasefire Resolution in Ongoing Gaza Crisis

Sat Oct 18 2025 01:48:35 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

For the sixth time, the United States has vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, leaving global leaders divided on the humanitarian crisis. The veto has drawn substantial criticism from other nations.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led the US to veto a UN Security Council resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages. While all other members supported the motion, US officials argue the resolution inadequately condemns Hamas and fails to acknowledge Israel's right to defend itself. International criticism follows the veto, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation as violence escalates.

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 recognize Israel's right to defend itself.

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

This 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.

On the global stage, Israel and its closest ally look increasingly isolated.

Speaking prior to the vote, Ortagus said Washington's opposition to the resolution should come as no surprise. She cited that it fails to adequately condemn Hamas and recognize Israel's self-defense rights.

Reactions from other UN members were swift. Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, labeled the US's decision as deeply regrettable and painful while Pakistan's ambassador characterized the veto as a dark moment for the Security Council.

In Gaza, thousands are fleeing amid ongoing Israeli ground operations, which have become increasingly deadly. The humanitarian crisis in the region continues to deteriorate, with significant casualties reported.

The Israeli military's aggressive campaign in Gaza has been a response to a previous Hamas-led attack, which resulted in high fatalities. The humanitarian toll continues to rise with ongoing violence.