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The United States on Wednesday vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an “immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire” in Gaza and for unhindered aid access across the war-torn enclave.

The draft resolution, introduced by 10 of the 15 council members, received 14 votes in favor. The U.S. stood alone in opposition, blocking its adoption. The move drew criticism from many diplomats and humanitarian groups amid escalating violence and a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

“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,” said Acting U.S.

Ambassador to the U.N. Dorothy Shea ahead of the vote.

“This resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground, and embolden Hamas.” The conflict, now in its ninth month, reignited after Israel ended a two-month ceasefire in March. Israel insists that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza and continues military operations aimed at dismantling the group and rescuing hostages taken in the October 7 attacks.

On Wednesday, Gaza health officials reported 45 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes. Israel confirmed the death of one soldier during the same period. Over 54,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of Israel's military campaign, according to local health authorities, who say civilians account for the majority of casualties. A humanitarian disaster continues to unfold. With more than 2 million people trapped in Gaza, the threat of famine is growing. Although Israel lifted an 11-week blockade on May 19, aid deliveries remain sparse and erratic.

Aid Delivery Challenges and Civilian Casualties Mount

The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) halted aid distribution on Wednesday, citing security concerns after a series of deadly incidents near distribution sites. The group is urging Israel to improve civilian safety measures.
GHF stated it has asked the Israeli military to “guide foot traffic in a way that minimizes confusion or escalation risks” near military positions, create clearer safety protocols, and enhance training to protect civilians.
In just three days—from Sunday through Tuesday—hospital officials reported more than 80 people shot dead and hundreds wounded near food distribution sites. On Tuesday alone, at least 27 people were killed.

Eyewitnesses claimed Israeli forces opened fire on hungry civilians who had gathered before dawn. The Israeli military denied targeting civilians but admitted firing warning shots at individuals it described as “suspects.”

“Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” said a GHF spokesperson. The new aid model, launched last week and limited to three distribution sites, relies on private U.S. security and logistics firms. Critics, including the U.N., argue the approach militarizes aid and excludes established humanitarian organizations.

U.N. aid chief Tom Fletcher renewed calls for unrestricted humanitarian access: “Open the crossings – all of them. Let in lifesaving aid at scale, from all directions. Lift the restrictions on what and how much aid we can bring in. Ensure our convoys aren’t held up by delays and denials.”

The U.N. has repeatedly blamed both Israeli restrictions and widespread lawlessness in Gaza for impeding aid distribution. Israel contends that Hamas has looted aid shipments, an allegation the group denies.

Since its launch last week, GHF says it has delivered over seven million meals. GHF Interim Executive Director John Acree appealed to aid groups:
“Work with us and we will get your aid delivered to those who are depending on it.” The current war was triggered by Hamas’s October 7 assault, which killed 1,200 people in Israel and resulted in around 250 hostages being taken to Gaza, according to Israeli figures. Israel's military campaign has since escalated, with catastrophic consequences for the civilian population.