US vetoes UN ceasefire resolution for Gaza, citing imbalance and unrealistic terms

The US vetoed the United Nations Security Council resolution on Gaza,  calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, on Friday (local time). The resolution, backed by over 90 member states and put forward by the United Arab Emirates, received 13 votes in favour, while the UK abstained from voting.

Reasons for US veto on Gaza ceasefire at UNSC

The resolution, backed by over 90 member states and put forward by the United Arab Emirates, calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, was vetoed by the US Deputy Representative at the UN, Robert Wood. The resolution received 13 votes in favour, while the UK abstained from voting.

Here's why the US vetoed calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Hamas: 

1. The US Deputy Representative, Robert Wood, stressed that the resolution is "divorced from reality" and “would not have moved the needle forward on the ground.”
2. Wood explained the US's reluctance to support an unconditional ceasefire, stating it would be "dangerous" and leave Hamas in a position to attack again.
3. He expressed disappointment in the resolution's failure to condemn Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, including acts of terrorism and sexual violence.
4. Robert Wood highlighted the UNSC's failure to condemn Hamas' October 7 attack as a "serious moral failure" and underscored the "fundamental disconnect" between discussions in the Chamber and realities on the ground.

Meanwhile, The UK abstained from the draft resolution, citing its failure to condemn the atrocities committed by Hamas on Israeli civilians on October 7. Ambassador Barbara Woodward emphasized the need for Israel to address the threat posed by Hamas while abiding by international humanitarian law. Further, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated condemnation of Hamas' attacks on Israel on October 7, expressing being "appalled" by reports of sexual violence. The Secretary-General stated that there is "no possible justification" for the deliberate killing of over 1,200 people, including 33 children, and injuring thousands while taking hundreds hostage. Guterres emphasized that the brutality of Hamas cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. He called on the international community to "spare no effort" to push for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, the protection of civilians, and urgent delivery of lifesaving aid.