The United States on Wednesday vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as unrestricted humanitarian aid access across the war-torn enclave. The draft resolution was supported by 14 of the 15 Security Council members, but blocked by the U.S. alone.U.S. Cites Need to Address HamasExplaining the veto, Acting U.S. Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea said Washington could not back any resolution that failed to condemn Hamas or call for its disarmament and withdrawal from Gaza.”This resolution would undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground and would embolden Hamas,” Shea told the Council.The draft resolution was tabled by 10 Council members seeking to halt the escalating violence in Gaza.Israel Resumes Military CampaignIsrael has rejected calls for a permanent ceasefire, insisting that Hamas must be eliminated from Gaza. Since ending a two-month truce in March, Israel has resumed its military operations, also aiming to rescue hostages held by the militant group.On Wednesday alone, Gaza health authorities reported 45 Palestinian deaths from Israeli strikes, while Israel said one of its soldiers was killed in combat. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with over 2 million people facing food insecurity and famine looming. Aid deliveries have only slightly improved since Israel lifted an 11-week blockade on May 19.Challenges to Aid DeliveryDespite the easing of restrictions, no aid was distributed Wednesday by the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), due to growing concerns over civilian safety near distribution points. The GHF urged Israel to enhance security protocols and communication near its so-called “secure” sites after a series of deadly incidents.According to hospital reports, more than 80 people have been shot and hundreds wounded at food distribution points since Sunday, including at least 27 deaths on Tuesday. Witnesses claimed Israeli troops opened fire on crowds gathered before dawn to receive food; the Israeli military denied targeting civilians, stating they fired only at “suspects” who ignored warnings.“Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” a GHF spokesperson said.Aid Distribution Under ScrutinyThe GHF’s new aid model, which launched last week and operates through only three locations, has been criticized by the UN and aid organizations for effectively militarizing humanitarian aid by involving private U.S. security and logistics personnel.UN aid chief Tom Fletcher made a renewed appeal before the Security Council vote, calling on Israel to open all border crossings and lift restrictions on humanitarian deliveries. “Let in lifesaving aid at scale, from all directions,” he urged. “End the delays and denials.”The UN has repeatedly blamed both Israeli restrictions and lawlessness within Gaza for obstructing aid delivery. Israel, on the other hand, accuses Hamas of stealing aid, an allegation the group denies.Despite the challenges, GHF stated it has delivered over seven million meals in the past week. Interim Executive Director John Acree urged other humanitarian organizations to coordinate with GHF: “Work with us, and we will get your aid to those who are depending on it.”
