A draft resolution calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza failed to pass in the UN Security Council on Wednesday after the U.S. cast its veto.
The text was co-sponsored by Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Somalia, collectively known as the E-10.
The text received 14 votes in favour, with the U.S. casting the lone vote against, blocking the initiative backed by all 10 elected members of the Council.
As one of the Council’s five permanent members, the U.S. holds veto power, a negative vote that automatically blocks any resolution from going forward.
If the resolution had been adopted, the draft would have demanded “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza” to be respected by all parties.
The text reaffirmed the Council’s earlier call for the “immediate, dignified and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups.”
The draft expressed grave concern over the “catastrophic humanitarian situation” in Gaza, following months of almost total Israeli aid blockade, including the risk of famine, highlighted by recent international food security assessments.
