The United States has repeatedly used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to block resolutions demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. the US maintains its stance that Hamas must disarm and leave Gaza.

The US has vetoed ceasefire resolutions four times. Robert Wood, Deputy US Ambassador to the United Nations, stated the US position hinges on a relationship between the ceasefire and the liberation of hostages.

Most recently, the US again vetoed a ceasefire resolution. Acting US Ambassador to the United Nations Dorothy Shea told the council before the vote, The United States will not support any action that failed to condemn Hamas and did not call for Hamas to disarm weapons and leave Gaza. This veto was the first action under US President Donald Trump’s administration as taking office in January.

The US argues that such resolutions would undermine its efforts to mediate a ceasefire. The US is a key ally and major arms supplier to Israel.

The other 14 members of the UNSC voted in favor of the ceasefire resolution, citing the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 2 million people reside. Gaza faces widespread starvation,and aid delivery has been limited as Israel eased its 11-week blockade last month.

The UNSC vote occurred as Israel continued its offensive in Gaza after a two-month ceasefire ended in March. Gaza health authorities reported that Israeli attacks killed 45 people, while Israel reported the death of one soldier in combat.

Hamas Responds

Barbara Woodward, the British Ambassador to the UN, criticized Israel’s decision to expand military operations in gaza and severely restrict humanitarian aid, calling it indefensible, disproportionate, and counterproductive.

Israel has rejected calls for an unconditional or permanent ceasefire, asserting that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza. Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny danon told council members who supported the resolution, You chose division and surrender. You chose a path that does not lead to peace, just towards more terror.

Hamas condemned the US veto, describing it as evidence of the US government’s blind bias towards Israel. The UNSC draft resolution also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups.

US Continues to Support Israel

The US stated that the resolution would harm ongoing diplomatic efforts and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Israel at the United Nations.

US Foreign Minister Marco Rubio said in a statement after the vote, which saw 14 members in favor and one against, Today, the United States sent a strong message by vetoing the counter-productive security council resolution regarding gaza targeting Israel.

Rubio added that Washington would not support any text that equated Israel and Hamas, or ignored Israel’s rights to defend themselves. He affirmed,The United States will continue to support Israel at the United Nations.