In a significant move at the United Nations, the US has once again exercised its veto power against a Security Council resolution that called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution, which was supported by all other members of the 15-member council, also demanded the distribution of humanitarian aid and the release of all hostages held by Hamas.

The decision came during the council's landmark 10,000th meeting, a session that not only focused on the ongoing conflict but also addressed the severe humanitarian crises unfolding in Gaza, including famine and potential genocide. US representative Morgan Ortagus defended the veto, stating that the resolution failed to condemn Hamas or recognize Israel’s right to self-defense, arguing it would perpetuate a system that benefits Hamas at the expense of civilians.

The Israeli ambassador expressed gratitude towards the US for its steadfast support in utilizing its veto power. This marks the sixth time the US has blocked a Gaza ceasefire resolution at the Security Council, with the previous veto occurring in June.

On the other side, the ten non-permanent members, led by Danish Ambassador Christina Markus Lassan, voiced their disappointment but reiterated their commitment to pushing for peace. "14 members of this Council have sent a clear message … We will continue to work for this for however many Council meetings it may take," Lassan stated.

The backdrop of this political standoff is grim. The war in Gaza, which escalated sharply on October 7, 2023, has seen a staggering loss of life with at least 65,174 people killed, including 19,424 children over the past two years. Recent reports from a UN independent commission have accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.

Following the vote, several countries, including Algeria and the UK, voiced their frustration over the failure to protect Palestinian civilians and criticized Israel’s expansion of military operations amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The Palestinian ambassador, Riyad Mansour, lamented the US veto as a significant setback in protecting Palestinian lives and hinted at the persistent visibility of this issue at upcoming major UN gatherings.

This veto not only underscores the complexities of international diplomacy and national interests but also highlights the profound human costs of prolonged conflict. As the international community remains divided, the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, leaving the global body searching for viable pathways to peace and stability.