The United States blocks UN resolution urging instant stop to fighting in Gaza

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The United States has vetoed a United Nations Security Council demand for an “immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire” between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip and unhindered aid access across the enclave.

The other 14 countries on the council voted in favour of the draft as a humanitarian crisis grips the enclave of more than 2 million people, where famine looms and aid has only trickled in since Israel lifted an 11-week blockade last month.

“The United States has been clear we would not support any measure that fails to condemn Hamas and does not call for Hamas to disarm and leave Gaza,” acting US ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea told the council before the vote.

“This resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground, and embolden Hamas,” she said of the text that was put forward by 10 countries on the 15-member council.

Hamas condemned the US veto, describing it as showing “the US administration’s blind bias” towards Israel.

The draft Security Council resolution had also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and others.

People sitting around a United Nations deck.

The US was the sole country not to vote in favour of the draft resolution. Source: AAP / EPA / Eskinder Debebe / UN handout

Israel has rejected calls for an unconditional or permanent ceasefire, saying Hamas cannot stay in the Gaza Strip.

It has renewed its military offensive in the enclave — also seeking to free hostages held by Hamas — since ending a two-month ceasefire in March.

Gaza health officials said Israeli strikes killed 45 Palestinians on Wednesday and Israel said a soldier died in fighting.

Aid distribution sites temporarily shut down

The GHF said it has asked the Israeli military to “guide foot traffic in a way that minimises confusion or escalation risks” near military positions; develop clearer guidance for civilians; and enhance training to support civilian safety.

Hospital officials have said more than 80 people were shot dead and hundreds wounded near distribution points in a three-day period from Sunday, including at least 27 killed on Tuesday.

Locals said Israeli soldiers opened fire on the crowd on Tuesday that massed before dawn to seek food.

The military has denied this but acknowledged that troops fired at “suspects” who ignored warning shots and were approaching their lines.

“Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” a GHF spokesperson said.

The new aid distribution process — currently from just three sites — was launched last week.

The UN and international aid groups have refused to work with the GHF because they say it is not neutral, militarises aid and forces the displacement of Palestinians.

The war in the Gaza Strip has raged since 2023 after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in Israel in the October 7 attack and took about 250 hostages back to the enclave, according to Israeli tallies.

Israel responded with a military campaign that has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.