Yanking the UNSC's Resolution on Gaza Ceasefire and Aid Delivery: A Recurring US Veto
U.S. impedes United Nations' resolution proposing truce in Gaza and humanitarian aid delivery.
In a predictable move, the US vetoed a UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution on June 4, 2025, which aimed for an unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the lifting of all restrictions on humanitarian aid delivery. The resolution had garnered a unanimous vote from the other 14 members of the UNSC, but alas, the US stepped in to block it yet again.
According to US Ambassador to the United Nations, Dorothy Shea, the veto was necessary because “this resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts towards a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground, and would embolden Hamas." The history of US vetoes on similar resolutions suggests a pattern.
The US consistently argues that such resolutions undermine ongoing diplomatic negotiations by failing to address the complexities of the situation and by not supporting a negotiated agreement between the parties. Moreover, the US often claims that these resolutions fail to hold Hamas accountable for various attacks, notably the October 7, 2023 attacks, as they do not explicitly condemn Hamas or demand its disarmament. The US insists on these conditions before backing any ceasefire.
The US also fears that these resolutions could embolden Hamas, potentially compromising Israel's security. They argue that any resolution must account for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and full accountability for those responsible for initiating the conflict. The US has expressed concern that such resolutions draw a "false equivalence" between Israel and Hamas and could jeopardize Israel's right to self-defense.
While the specific reasoning for the 2021 veto is not detailed in recent sources, the rationale provided for the June 2025 veto closely mirrors the US positions on Gaza ceasefire resolutions over recent years. Despite the passage of time, the US stance remains consistent: Any Security Council action must not undermine Israel’s security or the ongoing diplomatic process.
Here's a brief summary of the US's reasons for vetoing Gaza ceasefire resolutions over the years:
| Reason | Description ||--------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|| Undermines diplomatic negotiations | Resolution may hinder or preempt ongoing talks || Fails to hold Hamas accountable | No explicit condemnation or demand for disarmament || Risks emboldening Hamas | Ceasefire not linked to hostage release, potential to compromise security || Compromises Israel’s self-defense rights | Resolution draws "false equivalence" between Israel and Hamas |
In essence, the US sees these resolutions as hurried, ineffective band-aids rather than thoughtful, diplomatic solutions that address the root causes of the conflict. The US maintains that any resolution must be well-rounded, accounting for the needs, concerns, and safety of all parties involved. It's a perspective that has remained unchanged over the years, making the US vetoes a recurring theme in the UNSC's discussions on Gaza.
- The US's repeated vetoes of UN Security Council resolutions aiming for a Gaza ceasefire, such as the one on June 4, 2025, can be linked to the country's community policy and politics, particularly its stance on war-and-conflicts and general news.
- The US's veto in 2025, as well as previous ones, is reflective of a broader employment policy where the country consistently prioritizes diplomatic efforts, accountability, and the security of Israel over immediate ceasefires, drawing parallels between these policies and the unfolding events in Gaza.
