The U.S. on Thursday, September 18, again used its veto to block a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza—temporarily shielding its ally Israel from diplomatic pressure.
The 14 other members of the Council backed the resolution, which also demanded the unconditional release of hostages.
The vote came as Israeli tanks and jets intensified their offensive against Hamas and its allies in Gaza City, forcing civilians to flee south amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Israeli ambassador Danny Danon condemned the resolution, arguing it ignored Hamas’ attacks and the October 7 massacre, while other Council members voiced frustration over their limited ability to influence Israel’s actions.
Ahead of the vote, Denmark’s UN ambassador Christina Lassen vented the mainstream European hostility facing Israel, stating
Let this resolution send a clear message, a message that the Security Council is not turning its back on starving civilians, on the hostages and the demand for a ceasefire.
Critics suggest that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is fueling the posturing of the European leaders on the ‘Palestinian question,’ which increases Israel’s political isolation in the face of the forces of darkness.
