The United States vetoed a United Nations Security Council draft resolution on Thursday that called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the lifting of all restrictions on aid deliveries, and the unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas. The resolution, backed by 14 of the 15 council members, was blocked by Washington for the sixth time since the war began nearly two years ago. The veto came despite mounting evidence of famine in Gaza and worsening civilian suffering. 👍 Follow Republic Policy on YouTube.
Denmark’s U.N. Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen underscored the dire humanitarian toll, stating that famine has been “confirmed in Gaza — not projected, not declared, confirmed.” She warned that Israel’s expanded military operations in Gaza City were intensifying civilian suffering, calling the crisis a “humanitarian and human failure.” Global hunger monitors previously declared famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas, warning it was likely to spread without urgent aid. 👍 Follow Republic Policy on Facebook.
The U.S. has traditionally shielded Israel at the U.N., and while it supported a statement last week condemning strikes on Qatar, its latest veto reaffirmed Washington’s diplomatic protection of Israel. U.S. diplomat Morgan Ortagus told the council that Hamas bore responsibility for prolonging the war, insisting the conflict could end if hostages were freed and arms laid down. 👍 Follow Republic Policy on Twitter.
Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon acknowledged displeasure with the Security Council’s statement on Qatar but emphasized that cooperation with the U.S. remained “very high.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address the U.N. General Assembly next week before traveling to Washington for a meeting with President Trump on September 29. Meanwhile, the Security Council is preparing a high-level meeting on Gaza during the U.N. gathering. 👍 Follow Republic Policy on Instagram.
The war, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, has since claimed the lives of more than 64,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to Gaza health authorities. With famine now confirmed and diplomatic paralysis at the U.N., the humanitarian crisis continues to spiral. 👍 Follow Republic Policy on LinkedIn.
