On Wednesday, the United States exercised its veto power at the United Nations Security Council, rejecting a resolution intended to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

This veto marks the sixth occasion on which the US has blocked a resolution critical of Israel since hostilities began in Gaza on October 7, 2023.

The resolution, which garnered support from all other fourteen members of the Security Council, including traditionally allied nations such as France and the United Kingdom, contained three main demands: a ceasefire, the release of hostages held by Hamas, and the facilitation of large-scale humanitarian aid to Gaza, which is currently experiencing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

Negotiated over a two-week period, the resolution was described by Slovenian representative Samuel Zbogar as having reached a 'reasonable consensus.' In a statement before the vote, US Ambassador Dorothy Shea defended the veto, arguing that the resolution was 'unacceptable' due to its wording and omissions.

She emphasized that the US would not endorse any measures that do not condemn Hamas or call for its disarmament, stating, 'This resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground and embolden Hamas.'

Ambassador Shea also asserted that the resolution established a 'false equivalence between Israel and Hamas' that is 'incorrect and dangerous.'

In her remarks, she encouraged support for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an American initiative promoted by the Israeli government to channel humanitarian assistance outside UN frameworks.

This comes despite reports of chaos and violence during multiple aid operations in the region.

In a stark criticism, British Ambassador Barbara Woodward expressed concern over Israel's restrictions on humanitarian aid delivery, describing the shooting of Palestinians waiting to collect aid as 'inhumane.'

Pakistani Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad articulated a sentiment shared by many Muslim nations, stating, 'This is no longer a humanitarian crisis; it is the collapse of humanity.' He remarked on the recent failure of the Council to act, attributing it to one member obstructing its responsibilities.

Representatives from various countries, including Norway and Slovenia, expressed dismay at the veto, characterizing it as a significant setback for a humanitarian resolution in Gaza.

They noted that 'famine and withholding of aid' are contrary to international law and cannot be justified by any military objectives.