The United States on Wednesday vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the release of hostages and the unrestricted flow of aid. 

The council’s remaining 14 members voted in favor of the resolution, which demanded “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties.” 

Under the Biden administration, the United States repeatedly exercised its veto authority on the Security Council to shield Israel from resolutions that called for a ceasefire in Gaza. Two ceasefire texts were adopted with US support or abstention. 

Dorothy Shea, the acting US representative to the United Nations, called the resolution “unacceptable” for its failure to condemn Hamas or demand its disarmament. Shea also slammed what she said was a “performative process” by other council members intended to force a US veto. 

“Any product that undermines our close ally Israel's security........

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