In brief
In a significant move, the United States has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the sixth time. Aimed at addressing the catastrophic humanitarian crisis, the resolution was supported by all other council members but rejected by the US, which argued it did not adequately condemn Hamas. This decision comes as Israeli military operations escalate in Gaza City, pushing local citizens further into despair.
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 recognizing 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.
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.
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.
After the vote, UN members reacted swiftly to express their disappointment. Palestinian Ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour called the US's decision deeply regrettable and painful, saying it had prevented the Security Council from playing its rightful role in the face of these atrocities.
This latest UN vote came just days before world leaders gather for the UN General Assembly where Gaza will be a major topic and key American allies, including the UK, are expected to recognize an independent Palestinian state.
Meanwhile, Israeli tanks and troops are continuing to advance into Gaza City on the third day of a ground offensive, forcing thousands of people to flee.
According to reports, the Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to a significant loss of life and ongoing humanitarian crises as civilians continue to suffer.
