China has accused the United States of abusing its veto power at the United Nations Security Council after Washington blocked another resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The move has deepened divisions among global powers over how to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian enclave.
The resolution, backed by 14 of the 15 Security Council members, called for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as well as unrestricted humanitarian aid access and the release of hostages held by Hamas and allied groups.
China’s UN Ambassador Fu Cong said the U.S. decision to veto the measure represented “another abuse of its veto power” and undermined international efforts to end the violence.
The United States defended its position, arguing that the draft resolution failed to sufficiently condemn Hamas for its attacks on Israel and did not adequately acknowledge Israel’s right to defend itself. U.S. officials also contended that the resolution improperly separated the ceasefire demand from the issue of hostage releases, which Washington insists must be linked.
Reactions from China and Other Nations
Beijing’s criticism reflects growing frustration among countries that see repeated U.S. vetoes as obstacles to international consensus on Gaza. “The world cannot afford to allow one country to obstruct overwhelming global calls for peace,” Fu told reporters after the vote, according to bloomberg
Russia and several other Council members echoed China’s stance, with Moscow accusing Washington of shielding Israel from accountability. Diplomats from France and Algeria, which co-sponsored the resolution, expressed disappointment that the measure failed despite near-unanimous support.
Rising Humanitarian Concerns
The vote comes amid worsening conditions in Gaza, where aid agencies warn that shortages of food, water, and medical supplies are pushing civilians to the brink of catastrophe. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has urged the Security Council to act, saying the situation requires urgent and united action.
