US Vetoes UN Ceasefire Call for Gaza: A Shift in Diplomatic Dynamics

Wed Oct 22 2025 15:40:18 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The United States has vetoed a UN resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza for the sixth time, igniting criticism from international allies amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in the region.

In a controversial move, the United States has vetoed a call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the sixth time, citing insufficient condemnation of Hamas and a lack of recognition of Israel's right to defend itself. This decision comes against a backdrop of escalating violence and a humanitarian crisis, as UN officials describe the situation in Gaza as 'catastrophic'. The veto has drawn swift condemnation from other UN members, highlighting the complex dynamics of international diplomacy in the conflict.

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 stated that 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. This decision 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'.

'It fails to condemn Hamas or recognize Israel's right to defend itself, and it wrongly legitimizes the false narratives benefiting Hamas, which have sadly found currency in this council,' she asserted.

After the vote, Arab representatives expressed deep disappointment. Palestinian Ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour called the US's decision 'deeply regrettable and painful', suggesting it had prevented the Security Council from taking its rightful role in addressing the current humanitarian crisis.

Pakistan's ambassador described the veto as 'a dark moment in this chamber,' urging members to heed the cries of children affected by the conflict. Following these sentiments, Algeria's ambassador extended apologies to the Palestinian people on behalf of the UN's failure to act.

The latest veto occurred shortly before world leaders gather for the UN General Assembly, where the Gaza crisis is expected to dominate discussions. As Israeli tanks and troops advance into Gaza, thousands continue to flee in fear of escalating hostilities.

According to the Gaza health ministry, the Israeli military campaign has resulted in the deaths of at least 65,141 people in Gaza since its initiation in response to a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel in October 2023, amid ongoing concerns over malnutrition and starvation exacerbated by the conflict.