Daijiworld Media Network - Gaza

Gaza, Sep 19: The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Thursday calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, citing insufficient condemnation of Hamas. The remaining 14 council members voted in favour, highlighting the “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis and urging Israel to lift restrictions affecting 2.1 million Palestinians.

The vote came amid intensified Israeli military action in Gaza City, with tanks and jets targeting urban areas and forcing residents to flee south. Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour expressed deep disappointment, while Algeria, leading the resolution, praised the 14 supporting members despite the US veto.

US policy advisers argued the resolution failed to recognise Israel’s right to self-defence and did not adequately condemn Hamas. Israel’s UN ambassador Danny Danon said the resolution would not aid hostages or regional security.

The resolution reiterated previous demands for hostage release following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack. UN experts have concluded that Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute genocide, and the UN General Assembly continues to support a two-state solution. The conflict shows no immediate signs of abating as Israeli forces continue their ground operations.