US Once Again Vetoes Security Council Resolution Demanding Immediate Gaza Ceasefire, Hostage Release

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The United States vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution Thursday that demanded an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, saying it did not sufficiently condemn Hamas. All 14 other council members voted in favor.

The resolution described Gaza’s humanitarian crisis as “catastrophic,” called on Israel to lift aid restrictions, and urged the release of all hostages held by Hamas and other militant groups since their Oct. 7, 2023, attack in Israel.

Senior U.S. policy adviser Morgan Ortagus said the measure “fails to condemn Hamas or recognize Israel’s right to defend itself” and accused other members of pursuing “performative action designed to draw a veto.” Israel’s ambassador, Danny Danon, also criticized the resolution, saying it “will not release the hostages and will not bring security to the region.”

The veto comes as Israel escalates a ground offensive in Gaza City, amid U.N. warnings of worsening famine and accusations from independent experts that Israel is committing genocide. The resolution’s failure underscores growing international isolation for the U.S. and Israel on Gaza policy ahead of the U.N. General Assembly, where several allies are expected to recognize a Palestinian state.