U.S. Vetoes UN Ceasefire Resolution in Israel-Hamas Conflict Amid Controversy

In a UN Security Council session called for by the United Arab Emirates, a resolution proposing an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict faced a setback as the United States exercised its veto power.

The resolution garnered support from 100 countries, with 13 out of 15 Security Council members voting in favor, the United Kingdom abstaining, and the U.S. casting a dissenting vote.

The U.S. representative cited dissatisfaction with the resolution's formulation, claiming that Washington's proposed amendments to ensure the entry of humanitarian aid, encourage the release of hostages, and address other concerns were ignored. The representative expressed disappointment that the resolution did not condemn Hamas's surprise attack on October 7, where over 1,200 people were reportedly killed. Furthermore, the U.S. criticized the absence of condemnation for reported sexual violence by Hamas and the refusal to include language ensuring Red Cross visits to abductees.

The U.S. emphasized the need for investigating and condemning sexual crimes committed by Hamas, along with a call for the release of abductees during humanitarian pauses. The decision, as explained by the U.S. representative, also failed to acknowledge Israel's right to defend itself against terrorism.

Responding to the U.S. veto, the United Arab Emirates expressed disappointment with the Security Council's inability to demand a humanitarian ceasefire. They accused the council of becoming isolated and questioned the message sent to the Palestinians.

Israel's UN Ambassador, Gilad Erdan, thanked the U.S. for the veto, stating, "I thank the USA and President Biden for standing firmly by our side even today. A little of the light rejected a lot of the darkness." Erdan insisted that a ceasefire would only be possible with the return of all abductees and the destruction of Hamas.

The UN photo captured the tense diplomatic moment, highlighting the stark division in the international community regarding the resolution on the Israel-Hamas conflict.