On June 4, 2025, the United States vetoed a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution that called for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as well as unrestricted humanitarian aid access to the region. The resolution was supported by all 14 other council members, including the UK, France, China, and Russia, but was blocked by the U.S., marking its fourth veto of a Gaza ceasefire resolution since the conflict began in October 2023.

The U.S. justified its veto by stating that the resolution failed to condemn Hamas or link the ceasefire to the release of hostages held by the group. Acting U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea, argued that passing the resolution would embolden Hamas and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The veto has drawn significant international criticism. Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour described the resolution as “long overdue” and accused the U.S. of enabling continued violence. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Doctors Without Borders, condemned the U.S. action, suggesting it provides diplomatic cover for alleged war crimes and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with reports indicating that Israeli strikes killed at least 95 Palestinians on the same day as the U.S. veto. Aid groups have suspended operations due to safety concerns, and the UN has warned of worsening famine conditions.

In response to the Security Council’s deadlock, Egypt has invoked UN General Assembly Resolution 377A, which allows the General Assembly to take up matters when the Security Council fails to act due to a veto by a permanent member. This move could lead to a non-binding General Assembly resolution calling for a ceasefire, reflecting the broad international support for ending the conflict.

The U.S. veto underscores the deep divisions within the international community over the Gaza conflict and highlights the challenges in achieving a consensus on measures to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.