U.S. Veto Blocks UN Ceasefire Resolution as Gaza Offensive Intensifies
Outrage from other members grew after a sixth U.S. veto, with a high‑level Gaza meeting now set for September 23.
Overview
- The Security Council voted 14–1 for a draft demanding an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and safe, unhindered humanitarian aid, with the United States casting the lone veto.
- U.S. envoy Morgan Ortagus called the text unacceptable and said the war could end if Hamas freed the hostages and surrendered, while citing increased aid flows.
- Israeli ambassador Danny Danon criticized the draft for not condemning Hamas and publicly thanked Washington for using its veto.
- The vote came as Israeli forces expanded operations in Gaza City following a UN confirmation of extreme hunger, with Al Jazeera reporting at least 21 people killed on Friday and widespread phone and internet outages.
- The UN scheduled a high‑level Gaza session for September 23, and Reuters reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to meet President Donald Trump in Washington on September 29.